From Milk-Bones to Custom Treats: Redefining Dog-Friendly in Arizona

Why I’m Passionate About Creating Truly Dog-Friendly Spaces in Arizona and Beyond

As a pet parent, I know how important it is for my dog to feel comfortable and loved when we go out. It’s not just about taking your furry family member to a "dog-friendly" location; it's about them feeling truly welcomed, cared for, and valued. Unfortunately, in many places—especially in Arizona, where the pet culture is booming—dog-friendly spots often fall short.

You’ve probably seen it: a restaurant or hotel with a sign that says "dog-friendly," but when you walk in, your pup is either stuck outside on a scorching patio or given a bowl of stale water and some dry Milk-Bones. It feels more like a token gesture rather than a genuine attempt to cater to our pets. The question is, why should we, as pet parents, settle for that?

I want to change that narrative. My mission is to create spaces where pets and pet parents alike feel truly at home. As someone who owns a business in the pet industry, I see firsthand how many businesses claim to be "dog-friendly" but don’t actually offer the thoughtful and personalized experiences that dogs and their humans deserve. This isn't just a marketing scheme—it's about creating an environment where people can enjoy their time with their pets without worrying about basic things like fresh water, comfortable seating, or even treats that don’t feel like an afterthought.

Arizona’s Dog-Friendly Scene Needs More Than Just a Sign

Arizona is known for its amazing weather and outdoor spaces, making it a perfect place for pets and their families. But as much as businesses here advertise themselves as “dog-friendly,” they often don’t go the extra mile to make our pets feel welcomed. Many places don’t have fresh water readily available, or if they do, it’s not in a clean bowl. Treats? Most of the time, they’re the generic Milk-Bones that you wouldn’t want to give your dog if you had the choice. This is where I see a gap—there is so much potential to offer more than the bare minimum.

What if we could change that? What if we could elevate the dog-friendly experience to something that makes both pet parents and their pups feel special? I’m not just talking about allowing dogs into spaces. I’m talking about creating spaces where pets are celebrated and treated like part of the family. This could mean offering fresh, healthy treats, providing comfortable seating for pets and their families, or even making sure there’s enough shade and clean water when your dog needs it.

What Does It Mean to Be Truly Dog-Friendly?

Being truly dog-friendly means creating a space where pets feel safe, comfortable, and genuinely welcomed. It’s about more than just saying “we allow pets” on a website or a sign. It’s about meeting the needs of both the pet and the pet parent.

I want to partner with businesses that understand this. I want to help resorts, hotels, and other venues become places where people can bring their dogs without feeling like they’re an afterthought. I want pet parents to walk into a hotel and feel like they’re at a place that cares as much about their dog’s experience as their own. Think about it—fresh water for your pup, custom dog treats made just for your dog’s dietary needs, and a clean, welcoming environment where pets can lounge, play, or just relax while you enjoy your time.

I get it—some places do allow dogs, but the experience isn’t always comfortable or enjoyable for either party. I believe businesses need to go beyond the basics to really meet the needs of pet parents and their dogs. Whether it’s a hotel offering a personalized treat for your dog when you check in or a restaurant making sure you have a spot where your dog can join you without being left in the heat, these are the things that make a difference.

Would You Pay More for a Thoughtful, Personalized Experience?

As a pet parent, I would gladly pay more for a business that takes the time to create an experience that genuinely values my dog and me. For me, it’s not just about convenience; it’s about feeling like my family is truly welcomed and cared for. Would you?

Think about the last time you went to a so-called “dog-friendly” place. Did you feel truly valued as a pet parent? Or did it feel like an afterthought, like your pet was just a box they were ticking off? I’m here to change that and help businesses understand that creating a thoughtful, personalized experience for pets and their owners isn’t just good for the dogs—it’s good for business too.

Let’s Make Dog-Friendly Spaces the Norm

My goal isn’t just to cater to dogs. It’s to create an environment where both pets and pet parents feel like they belong. Whether it's a local resort, a café, or a small boutique, every dog-friendly space should be one where pets and their families feel like VIPs. It’s time we stop letting businesses hide behind a simple "dog-friendly" label and start creating spaces that genuinely make us feel welcome.

If you’re a pet parent, I hope you’ll join me in this mission. And if you’re a business owner, I encourage you to think about the kind of experience you want to offer. Let’s raise the bar together and make Arizona—and beyond—a truly dog-friendly destination for pets and their people.

Because when pets are happy, the whole family is happy.

— Jasmine Senn, Founder of Tugs & Tails