Pooch Perfect

It’s a dog’s life in Telluride and Mountain Village

BY JENNIFER JULIA

Photos by Melissa Plantz

Locals boast many great loves: a fabulous Freebox find, heading the line on a powder day and sprinting like an Olympian in a frantic festival tarp run. And while these faves all hold special places in our hearts, the nearest and dearest are, without question, our furry four-legged friends. Make no mistake, this is a dog’s town, and this passion is reflected in our retail culture, lodging options and the very fiber of our community. If you’re planning a trip to Telluride and Mountain Village, consider bringing

Fido along with you — he’ll probably have just as much fun (or more).

There are many places to stay locally where dogs are welcome with open paws. (See page 87 for the Guide’s list of all the pet-friendly accommodations options in the area.)

Throughout Telluride and Mountain Village, you’ll find pet-waste pick-up bag stations, conveniently located and provided for free, and if you need to make a quick dash into a store, there are a few puppy-parking spots where you can attach your dog’s leash for a moment or two. Feel like taking a ride in the sky? Public transportation doesn’t get more fun than the Gondola, a free, 13-minute scenic ride linking Telluride and Mountain Village, where pets are allowed in select cabins. Hop right on with your adventure-loving puppy — you both will get a kick out of the breathtaking views.

Telluride’s newest pet-centric emporium, Dirt Dawg, offers a full-service grooming operation, a handy self-wash station and a full line of food products, toys and more. Does your pooch have a special need? Try Dirt Dawg’s line of CBD products for immunity and joint support, or their calming treat called “No More Wiggles.” This shop’s locally minded owner price matches her retail selection to keep it affordable and does her part by stocking products from small, female-owned and regional businesses. Looking to adopt a new family member? Dirt Dawg partners with the Second Chance Humane Society and holds on-site adoption opportunities, first aid training for dogs and other fun events.

At PET Telluride, our veterinarian-owned pet store, you’ll find a sizable selection of useful products for dogs and cats, including single-ingredient treats, freeze-dried food options and a great line of healthy supplements. For the pet-owner with an eye for style, treat your Rover or Fifi to a cozy

Pendleton bed, a beautifully designed feeding dish or a fashionable collar or jacket for these chilly mountain temps. And if you’re looking to expand your menagerie, PET Telluride has begun stocking products for rabbits, guinea pigs, fish and birds. It also collaborates with the Telluride

Humane Society for adoptions and more. Hankering for some fun new doggy designs for your home? Check out Hook’s stylish selection of dog-themed tea towels, mugs, pillows, puzzles and, of course, hooks. And be sure to snap up a bag of their locally made dog treats, sure to get your pup’s tail wagging.

MAKE NO MISTAKE, THIS IS A DOG’S TOWN, AND THIS PASSION IS REFLECTED IN OUR RETAIL CULTURE.