Port City Pooches: An Area Guide for Wilmington’s Dogs from Compass Pointe

“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” – Josh Billings

“We observed evidence that pet owners fared better, both in terms of well-being outcomes and individual differences, than non-owners on several dimensions,” study researcher Allen McConnell, of Miami University in Ohio, said in a statement. “Specifically, pet owners had greater self-esteem, were more physically fit, tended to be less lonely, were more conscientious, were more extroverted, tended to be less fearful and tended to be less preoccupied than non-owners.” This explains why we’re all smiles in Wilmington, NC. As the area’s most dog friendly city, you will find smiling faces and wagging tails just about everywhere you may go.

There are plenty of places for Fido to tag along, let’s explore a few with Jackson the Golden. Located just north of Wilmington on Market Street is Poplar Grove Plantation, the perfect place to let you best friend off-leash. Because of its location, it is exempt from the New Hanover County leash law. It features miles of wooded trails through scenic pine forests, bridges and ponds, which is great for dogs to cool off on a summer day.

The Basin (Hermit) trail begins at the Fort Fisher Recreation Center. The trail is a sandy adventure to a former World War II bunker, made famous by Robert E. Harrill, as he lived out his life there as a recluse. Enjoy 2.2 miles of trails that offer 360 views of the intercostal waterway while walking on the wooden structures just above the water. At the end of the trail is a beautiful outlook. Time your trip just right and be cautious of the tides, as sections of the trail can flood.

Many establishments downtown are dog friendly! Bombers Beverage Company, Flytrap Brewing, Java Dog, Liquid Room and many dog friendly stores are all located in the beautiful historic district of downtown Wilmington. While you’re down there make sure to take in the views of “America’s Best Riverfront on The Riverwalk. This is a great place to take in the views and get some fresh air with your best friend. The Riverfront Park has dog water fountains and pet waste stations to accommodate your pet!

Many dogs love the sea as much as their human friends. Some things to take note of are when beaches are pet friendly:
• Fort Fisher – all times – on-leash.
• Carolina Beach – November 1st to February 28th – on leash.
• Wrightsville Beach – October 1 through March 31 – on leash.
• Freeman Park – March 1st to Oct. 31 – on leash. The rest of the year (November 1 through February 29) dogs are allowed off leash, but they must remain under voice command and the owner must be within a reasonable distance.

The John Nesbitt “Loop” at Wrightsville Beach is a beautiful place to get both you and your dog fit! Take in views of one of “America’s Best Beach Towns” and one of the “World’s Best Surf Towns” on this 2.45 mile loop. The loop is dog friendly with plenty of places for both runners to get water. Halfway through, there is even a “Dog Bar & Bath”.

The city of Wilmington is connected by miles and miles of trails called the Cross City Trail. Jump on a bike and explore all the different sections of the city. The trail will eventually connect “River to the Sea” – the Cape Fear River to the Atlantic Ocean.

Compass Pointe not only has a spacious dog park, but miles of trails so both you and your pooches can enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle. Contact Compass Pointe today at 888.717.6468!

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