Write Uptown: Making sure your dogs have fun in Oxford

Hi Sally,

I love Oxford! I also love my dogs and spending as much time with them as possible. How can I enjoy Oxford to its fullest with my fur babies? 

-Adam 

Hi Adam, thanks for the question! More than once I have been referred to as a “crazy dog lady,” and I wear that with a badge of honor. I am right there with you when it comes to wanting to spend as much time with my fur baby as possible. The guilt of leaving our pets at home when we go out is real! 

First I want to make sure I let you in on some important information and some legalities. Ohio law requires you to keep your dog on a leash no longer than six feet in public spaces. Oxford’s ordinances echo this law, along with an ordinance that says that you must clean up after your dog’s poop. You can find convenient poop bags in the Uptown parks, and while supplies last, Enjoy Oxford has some you can hook to your leash. 

Let’s talk about a few places you can take your best friend in Oxford. Bagel and Deli, Chipotle, Kofenya, Church Street Social, Left Field Tavern, OxVegas, Phan Shin and Skippers all have pet-friendly patios. You can also take your fur baby into Apple Tree, Enjoy Oxford, Oxford Community Arts Center, Pet Wants, Shademakers Garden Center and Walker’s Footwear and Apparel. 

Dog parks in Oxford are a puppy's dream! Oxford has one dog park built and one in construction. The Oxford Dog Park (Northside Bark) is located at 5160 Morning Sun Road and is a haven for dogs of all ages. They can run free off-leash and play with other dogs on a one-acre, fenced-in plot of land. Bring the kiddos too as this park has a playground as well! The city is also constructing a new dog park off of Bonham Road near Ruder Preserve.

Sometimes, we have to do something our pets can’t join in on, but we don’t want them to be left home alone. This is a perfect time to take your pet to one of the many pet day cares that Oxford has to offer. Happy Paws Pet Retreat is located on Reaghs Way and offers many services including boarding, day care and grooming. Be sure to check their website for the hours of operation. Oxford Kennel offers similar services and is located off of Oxford-Trenton Road. While these may be two of the most popular options, the town does have other options because Oxford residents sure love their dogs. 

Don’t forget to write to me with your question for next month’s article at 

write.uptownsally@gmail.com. Have your question submitted by Dec. 11 to have it considered for the Dec. 20 article.

Sally Roi is a lifelong resident of Oxford and a Miami University graduate. She has worked at several local businesses and is now operations manager for Enjoy Oxford.