5 Ways to Celebrate Fido’s Day in the Austin Area

First there was Mother's Day and Father's Day, and then comes the holiday to honor the furry family member in your life: National Dog Day! This national holiday is observed on August 26 each year. Here are some fun ideas for celebrating with your canine companion in the Austin area.

1. Visit Cedar Bark Park
2525 W New Hope Dr, Cedar Park

Located within Veterans Memorial Park, this dog park consists of a massive 5 acres of fenced-in terrain. There's a pond where your dog can play in the water, benches where you can sit and take a break, and even dog showers to clean off all the dirt after your afternoon of fun. The park is open daily from sunrise until 10 p.m.

2. Buy Treats at Woof Gang Bakery
1204 N Lamar Blvd, Austin

A bakery just for your dog? That's exactly what Woof Gang Bakery Is! This friendly neighborhood pet store offers specialty baked doggy snacks — from cookies shaped like pizza to canine cupcakes and donuts. They also carry premium pet food brands and offer grooming services, so you could treat your dog to a spa day and a special treat all in one visit.

3. Grab a Drink at Pints & Puppies
2908 Fruth St, Austin

Pints & Puppies is an exciting event at Spider House Cafe and Ballroom. Scheduled for 4 p.m. on August 27, it falls the day after National Dog Day and is a great opportunity to keep the celebration going. Bring your well-behaved dog and mingle with others as you enjoy craft beer from local breweries. Tickets are $15 online or $20 at the door and include one free drink and unlimited access to the photo booth. A portion of the proceeds go to benefit local pet rescue groups.

4. Enjoy a Spa Day At Uptown Grooming
9112 Anderson Mill Rd, Suite 799-A, Austin

Uptown Grooming is a professional pet salon where you can treat your furry companion to a luxurious spa treatment. Their standard grooming service includes luxury shampoo and conditioner, and you can add on a blueberry facial, teeth brushing, mud bath and a whole array of other services. Grooming is by appointment only, and you can make yours by calling 512.249.7387.

5. Share Dinner and Playtime at Yard Bar
6700 Burnet Rd, Austin

Yard Bar is a unique business that combines a restaurant with an off-leash dog park. They offer delicious food, from specialty burgers to cheese plates, along with local craft beers and craft cocktails. The off-leash dog park features a full bar, so you can sip while your dog plays and makes new friends. Passes to the dog park are just $5.50 per day, and they also sell monthly and annual memberships.

Alright Springs at Round Rock and Springs at Lakeline residents, it's your turn! Tell us how you plan to celebrate National Dog Day, or how you have celebrated in the past, in the comments below. We can't wait to hear all about your pets and their adventures.