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Best Pet-Friendly Getaways Near Detroit

Dogs in Car
(credit: Thinkstock)

January is a time when being trapped at home after the holidays can get a bit boring for both the human and pets in the house. So why not take a day trip or an overnight excursion with your pooch so everyone can enjoy a bit of time away.

Day Trips and Some tipsTaking your pet with you on a trip, whether for the day or weekend, is always great fun for both parties. But make sure you are prepared. Always keep your pet on a leash and, although this may seem like common sense, make sure you clean up after your four legged friend.

If you just want to spend the day out, then consider heading to one of the many Huron-Clinton Metroparks in the region. Pets are welcome on the grounds, though they cannot be brought into buildings. As always, they must be kept on a leash and under control.

Also, no matter where you go, remember that not everyone likes dogs and some are even afraid of them. So keep this in mind when heading into new places.

Nichols Arboretum
1600 Washington Heights
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734) 647-7600
www.lsa.umich.edu

For human and four-footed family members alike, Nichols Arboretum is a place to walk and take in the natural world, all while remaining close to home. The Arb, as it is known, was established in 1907 as a place where native plants could thrive and be protected. Self-guided walks will take you through a variety of landscapes, from meadows to hardwood forests, while following trails that are as varied as the plant life they pass through.

Related: Best Hotels In Detroit On A Budget

Domino's Petting Farm
3000 Earhart Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48106
(734) 998-0182
www.pettingfarm.comDomino's Petting Farm is located in Ann Arbor and is the perfect place to go if you have children and a pet to take on a day trip. There are, of course, farm animals to pet, many of them being rather rare breeds. But the thrust of the farm is to demonstrate the importance farming played in Michigan during the early years. Admission is $3 in the winter months and you and your pet will be able to walk about, pet the animals and feed some of the year-round waterfowl that have made the farm their home.
Over NightSometimes getting away for a day is not long enough, but luckily there are many hotels that accept pets. Most of the chains out there do and many of the smaller local lodging options will allow pets, but you have to check in advance to make sure.

Boyne Highlands
600 Highland Drive
Harbor Springs, MI 49740
(231) 526-3000
www.boyne.com/BoyneHighlands

If you want to treat your pet to one of the premier winter resorts in the state, then consider heading over to Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs. Anyone who knows Michigan knows about the Boyne Resorts which offer the best in alpine and Nordic skiing along with luxurious accommodations. There is also snowmobiling and snowshoeing, so if your pet is up to it, they can come along. The Main Lodge and the Bartley House at the resort welcomes pets, which keeps you close to the action going on at the slopes and trails. Best of all, if you want to enjoy walking around the resort grounds with your pet, they are as close as your hotel room door. When reserving a room, you must do it by telephone. Room rates at the Main Lodge and Bartley House begin at just over $200 for these truly superior accommodations.

Related: Getaway Guide: Weekend Road Trip To Traverse City

Evergreen Resort
7880 Mackinaw Trail
Cadillac, MI 49601
(231) 775-9947
evergreenresortmi.com
If you don't want to head as far as Harbor Springs and are looking for a place that welcomes your pet and offers some winter fun on the cross-country ski trails, then Evergreen Resort should be on your list. Here you can enjoy skiing, sleigh rides and snowshoeing while being able to return to your room with your pet waiting at the door. There is an extra fee of $20 per night for those with pets and there are a limited number of rooms available, so it is best to call in advance. Room rates begin at $129, including the added pet fee.
Award winning freelance writer and photographer Lawrence DiVizio is based in Southeast Michigan and works to convey in words and images the world around us. His work can be found at Examiner.com.
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