Paws & Play: Exploring Pet-Friendly Places around the St Kilda area
Welcome to the vibrant, pet-loving neighbourhoods in Pawsuit Happiness’ service area! If you're a proud pet parent around Port Melbourne, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Middle Park, St Kilda or Caulfield, then we have lots of secret gems to share with you! These areas are not only picturesque but also offer a plethora of pet-friendly spots. From cosy cafes to lush parks and charming shops, there's something for every furball enthusiast. So, leash up your pup and let's embark on a tail-wagging Pawsuit Happiness adventure!
Cafes and Bars
Around Pawsuit Happiness' local area, there are many cafes and bars known for their pet-friendly atmospheres, making them delightful places for both residents and visitors with furry companions. We love to properly socialise our pups and this is a great way to expose your dog to different environments and help them improve their social skills. When visiting new places, dogs become more accustomed to new sights, sounds, and people, fostering a well-adjusted and friendly demeanour. If you love to start your day with a caffeine fix or wind down with a refreshing beverage, these pet-friendly establishments should be your next stop!
Fitzrovia (155 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda) - Grab a beer with your best friend! No, we aren't kidding, this awesome restaurant has an extensive dog menu that includes a dog-friendly beer for those sunny afternoons hanging out. Opening Hours: 7:00 – 3:00 pm Mon-Fri, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm Weekends Neighbours Cafe (42 Chapel St, St Kilda) - Great for the multi-dog owners with lots of shaded outdoor seating and water bowls for your pups to drink from. Enjoy great coffee and brunch options. Opening Hours: 6:30 am – 4:00 pm Phoenician Cafe (34 Westbury St, St Kilda East) - One of Auntie Elena’s regular haunts with the dogs, featuring puppuccinos, a shaded outdoor setting and even a doggy menu! If you love baked treats, then this is definitely a place you will all enjoy. Opening Hours: 7:00 am – 3:00 pm Republica (1A – 1D, 10-18 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda Sea Baths) - Why not combine everything, including the beach! There’s plenty of shade with ocean-front views and chairs to relax alongside your dog. With access to the beach-front to explore the waves, Republica also hosts some excellent dog-friendly trivia. Opening Hours: 12:00 pm – late The Peacock (68 River St, South Yarra) - Just slightly out of our service area, this venue is one we still love to visit! It’s more for the single dog owner and walker, but it will be a special treat for you both! With dog-friendly cookies and high-tea for their human buddies, you will share an intimate cafe moment with each other. Opening Hours: 7:30 am – 3:00 pm Mon-Fri, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm weekends
Parks, Beaches & Reserves:
Dogs need regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and prevent boredom. Off-leash parks are fantastic places for dogs to interact with others, promoting socialisation and preventing behavioural issues. They also provide ample space for running, playing fetch, and engaging in physical activities that contribute to overall well-being. Auntie Elena always picks out the best parks, beaches and reserves to take your pups to explore. Here are some of her top tips to let your dog stretch their legs and mingle with other furry friends.
Albert Park Reserve (Albert Rd Dr, Albert Park) - Just a short distance from St Kilda, Albert Park offers large designated off-leash areas where your dog can run, play, and socialise to their heart's content. You can find 1hr free parking near the playground which is really convenient if you need to drive there. There isn’t much water here though, so always bring some with you. Gasworks Arts Park (21 Graham St, Albert Park) - Gasworks Arts Park is a vibrant arts precinct with lots of shade and high brick walls sheltering the park from the city. Depending on when you go, it can be busy with kids and events. But there are always bushes to explore and get away from the buzz if your pup is a bit shy. Also, it has water! West Bathers Pavilion (330A Beaconsfield Parade, St Kilda West) - A beach lovers paradise, from 10am to Sunset everyday, come with your pup to enjoy the sand, waves and beach club facilities. Caulfield Race Course (Station Street, Caulfield East) - This spacious off-lead park includes a lake, play areas and sporting/recreational facilities. Keep an eye on this park, as there are rumours that it may become an on-leash park in the future. For now however, enjoy this completely fenced off gem with your pup. If you’re in need of water, you can find convenient bubble taps for you and pup. Connected to Caulfield Race Course is Pawfield Park. It has an open-space for your dog’s exercise routine, socialisation and obedience training. There are lots of things to sniff and explore as well as seating and natural shade to rest in. St Kilda Beach (St Kilda) - St Kilda beach is great for any dog with good recall. Without enclosed spaces, you need to make sure you’re confident with your pup. Brighton Beach (Brighton) - This beach is a little out of our service area, but nevertheless a great one to know about! With enclosed spaces for your off-leash adventures, it proves much safer and more enjoyable for dogs than St Kilda beach. The beach is bordered by a scenic promenade that invites lots of dog walkers soaking in the panoramic views of the bay.
Shops & Community Events:
Taking your dog to pet-friendly shops exposes them to new scents, sights, and textures. This mental stimulation can be as beneficial as physical exercise, helping to keep their minds sharp and active. Allowing your dog to accompany you in pet-friendly shops can be a positive reinforcement experience as well. If they behave well, you can reward them with treats or a new toy, creating a positive association with the outing. Community events, in St Kilda especially, are often pet-friendly and give everyone in the family something to get excited about. From different community events to the range of weekly and monthly markets, there's something for everyone. Just remember to consider your dog's temperament, socialisation level, and any specific needs or preferences when introducing them to new environments, especially when there are big crowds. With the right approach, these experiences can contribute to a happy, well-rounded, and socially adept canine companion.
St Kilda Esplanade Market (Upper Esplanade, St Kilda) - Explore this iconic market on Sundays and discover stalls offering handmade pet products and treats. Your dog is sure to enjoy the attention and maybe even pick out a new favourite toy. So whether it's sipping coffee by the bay, frolicking in the park, or exploring unique pet-centric shops, these neighbourhoods are a haven for those seeking a paw-sitively delightful time with their pets. So, grab that leash, put on a smile, and let the adventure begin!
