Rough day?
They are the best kind.
And on August 26, several local spots are offering specials to celebrate the holidays, giving the usual dog-friendly dining experience “pupgrade.”
National Dog Day was founded in 2004 by author and advocate Colleen Paige, and shed more light on the number of dogs available for adoption through shelters and rescues.
Barkhaven executive chef Chris Hernandez became father eight months ago at the birth of his son, but he was the father of the dogs of Milo’s fiancee Leah’s Schnoodle rescue.
“I didn’t grow up with my pet, but now I see myself as a dog dad,” he says, like many new parents, finding that he grabs a small gift for his son in random places like Target and supermarkets.
“But I always pick up something from Milo.”
Best Pet Friendly: 2025 Orlando Sentinel Foodie Award
Head to the best places in Orlando for dog lovers. There, puppies receive a complimentary puppy cupcakes and half an entry into the dog park when ordering food or drinks. If you’re a dog parent and don’t have a fur baby here yet, heading to the neighborhood in Orlando’s village of Ivan Hoe and checking out it is a great excuse.
Meanwhile, at Kissimmee, Lazy Dog Restaurant has a minimalist meal in itself.
From August 26th to 31st, $1 from every dog bowl sold will be donated to Pet Partners, a nonprofit that registers and supports therapy dog teams that bring comfort and connection to people, including hospitals, schools and advanced centers.
Guests who eat that week will receive a free dog bowl card on future visits when purchasing appetizers.
All Lazy Dog Restaurant patios (with 52 locations nationwide) are dog-friendly, and dog bowls are made with grilled chicken or beef over brown rice and vegetables.
Do you want to reach out to me? Find me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram @Amydroo or the Osfoodie Instagram account @orlando.foodie. Email: amthompson@orlandosentinel.com. For more fun, join Let’s Eat and Orlando Facebook Group.
If you’re going
Barkhaven: 724 Brookhaven Drive in Orlando, 407-787-2275; barkhaven.com
Lazydog Restaurant: 8019 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway in Kissimmee, 689-228-4418; lazydogrestaurants.com
