Mount Dora is Pet Friendly

Mount Dora goes to the dogs!

Mount Dora has gone to the dogs. Ok, so not literally, but you get it; this is a dog-friendly community. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy time in the Mount Dora and Historic Downtown area of Mount Dora with their canine family members along for the fun. On a realistic scale of 1 – 10, I’d give Mount Dora a solid 7+ for being dog friendly.

Yes, this is a town you can enjoy with your fur-ball along, but there are some restrictions in place and you should be aware, or you’re going to find you and Fido in a bind and not much you can do. Here is a basic rundown of the current dog knowledge you should have when visiting Mount Dora:

• 1. While dogs are most always allowed in Historic Downtown, during city events requiring street closure, by ordinance, dogs are not allowed. This would include the very popular Fall Craft Fair, Spring Show, and Art Festival. Dogs will not be allowed into the closed off areas during such events. DO NOT BRING YOUR DOG as they will not be allowed and you will be turned away.


• 2. There is a dog park. This park is a bit outside of the Historic Downtown area. You can walk or drive to the corner of Unser Street and 11th Avenue behind the Ice House Theater.


• 3. Many, but not all, Historic Downtown businesses and restaurants do allow dogs to visit. They must be on a leash and kept under control. Some require they be carried. Signs are not always posted indicating if a business is welcoming, so do ask as you enter.


• 4. There are no doggie bag containers distributing doggie bags, so bring your own.


• 5. Water could be gotten from restaurants or a few spots that sell bottled water, but do keep in mind that there are no water bowls around town, so make certain you take care of this yourself.


• 6. Two monthly events celebrate dogs: Yappy Hour and PAWS for Mount Dora. These events are monthly, though PAWS takes the summer months off.


• 7. There are a handful of dog-friendly lodging options around the Historic Downtown. Their policies may change, so do check with the individual lodging establishment. Among those currently dog-friendly; Lakeside Inn, Tremain Street Cottages, Maison En Ville. For more, visit our Pet-friendly page. There are two dog businesses in town: Piglet’s Pantry and just at the edge of the Historic Downtown, Hobscot. Both offer dog-related products. Piglet’s in downtown offers treats, cat items, and people as well. Hobscot offers items for the pets in the family including dogs, cats, birds and more. There is also Pet Supermarket, outside of the historic district on Route 441 if you cannot find what you need in town.


• 8. Mount Dora is a great walking community, there are plenty of streets with shade, so bring your dog and take a walk.


• 9. The Sunday morning Mount Dora Village Market features a doggie booth. Watch for this market to grow in the fall of 2013.

This post was written by regular WhatToDoInMountDora.com contributor, Rori Paul. Rori is a travel writer and blogger.