A Guide to Dog-Friendly Winter Events in Missoula
Winter is a magical time in Missoula, MT, especially when it’s filled with festive events you can enjoy with your four-legged friends! From holiday parades to charity walks, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season with your dog by your side. Here’s a guide to the best dog-friendly winter events coming up in Missoula, plus tips to keep your pup warm and safe throughout the colder months.
Dog-Friendly Winter Events in Missoula
- Missoula Holiday Parade of Lights
Date: December 2, 2024
Location: Downtown Missoula
Bundle up and head downtown for Missoula’s annual Parade of Lights! Dogs on leashes are welcome to join in and soak up the festive spirit. It’s a great opportunity to let your pup experience new sights and sounds while meeting other dog-loving locals. - Winter Market at Caras Park
Dates: Every Saturday from November through December
Location: Caras Park, Missoula
This outdoor winter market offers a wonderful atmosphere with local vendors, hot cocoa, and live music. Dogs are allowed on leash, so bring them along for a cozy stroll and maybe snag a tasty treat from one of the pet-friendly vendors! - Paws & Claws Winter Charity Walk
Date: January 20, 2025
Location: Greenough Park
Join fellow pet parents for a winter walk at Greenough Park to raise funds for local animal shelters. The Paws & Claws Winter Charity Walk is an awesome way to give back to the community while letting your dog explore the winter wonderland of Missoula’s scenic park trails. - Holiday Lights Walk at Fort Missoula
Date: December 15, 2024
Location: Fort Missoula Regional Park
This evening event invites families to enjoy the holiday lights on foot, and leashed dogs are encouraged to join. Take in the twinkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday cheer together with your pup.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog Warm and Safe in Winter
Missoula winters can be chilly, so it’s essential to take steps to keep your dog comfortable and safe in cold weather:
- Bundle Up: Invest in a quality dog coat or sweater for those colder days, especially if your dog has a short coat. Smaller or senior dogs might appreciate an extra layer for added warmth.
- Protect Those Paws: Snow, ice, and road salt can be tough on paws. Consider using dog booties or applying a pet-safe balm to protect their pads.
- Limit Outdoor Time: Watch for signs of discomfort, like shivering, and limit time outdoors if your dog is showing signs of being too cold. If they’re shivering or lifting their paws off the ground, it’s time to head inside.
- Keep Them Visible: Winter days are shorter, so add reflective gear to your dog’s collar or leash for evening strolls to ensure they’re easily seen by others.
- Stay Hydrated: Just like in summer, it’s important for dogs to stay hydrated in winter. Offer them water frequently, especially if they’re running around in the snow.
Winter Events and Training: The Perfect Pair!
Dog-friendly events are not only fun but also a fantastic training opportunity. With new people, other dogs, and festive sights and sounds, these events can help reinforce skills like impulse control, leash manners, and focus around distractions. So, while you’re enjoying Missoula’s winter festivities, think of it as a way for your dog to keep practicing their training in a real-world setting.
If you’re looking to work on some specific skills with your dog before heading to these events, we’d love to help! Call us for a free consultation at (406) 946-3037 and get ready to make this winter season a memorable one for you and your furry friend.
Embrace the beauty of winter in Missoula with your pup by your side, knowing they’re warm, safe, and well-trained for all the adventures that await!
