Paws on the Pavement: Our Favorite Dog Walking Spots in Denville, New Jersey

Captain Quint hanging on a bench under Downtown Denville’s famed clocktower. We think he’s spotted Marty McFly.

Hello, #VLPgang! We’re excited to share some of our favorite dog walking spots in beautiful #Denville, #NewJersey. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, these trails and parks are perfect for your pups to stretch their legs and explore. Let's dive into the best places to get those tails wagging!


**1. Tourne County Park**

For those who crave a bit of adventure, Tourne County Park offers miles of trails that wind through lush forests and open fields. The park's diverse terrain makes it an exciting spot for curious canines. The highlight here is the climb to the top of Tourne Mountain, where you and your pup can enjoy breathtaking views of the New York City skyline on clear days. It’s a bit of a workout, but the reward is well worth it.

**2. Muriel Hepner Park**

Muriel Hepner Park is a quieter spot, perfect for dogs who prefer a more tranquil environment. The park features a lovely lake surrounded by walking paths and plenty of shaded areas for a restful break. It's a great spot for older dogs or those who just enjoy a peaceful walk. The local wildlife and the gentle breeze coming off the water make it a relaxing outing for both you and your furry friend.

**3. Rock Ridge Lake Trails**

Rock Ridge Lake Trails offer a picturesque setting with beautiful views of the lake. These trails are less crowded, providing a serene environment for you and your dog to enjoy nature. The gentle paths are ideal for a calm walk or a brisk jog, and the fresh air and scenic beauty make it a favorite among our regular walkers.

**4. Veterans Memorial Park**

Veterans Memorial Park is a community favorite with its well-kept lawns, picnic areas, and friendly atmosphere. The park has some paths designated for dogs. Which is NOT on the ballfields. It's a great spot for both exercise and making new furry friends. Please be aware, the dog park at Veteran’s Memorial Park is members only.

**Bonus: Downtown Denville**

While not a park, Downtown Denville deserves a mention for its dog-friendly atmosphere. Many local businesses provide water bowls outside their shops, and some even offer treats for your furry companions. Strolling through the charming streets of downtown, you can enjoy window shopping and maybe stop for a coffee or a drink at Diamond Spring Brewery or the pet friendly cafe right next door! It's a great way to socialize your dog and enjoy the vibrant community spirit.

**Why We Love Walking in Denville**

Denville’s mix of parks, trails, and dog-friendly spaces makes it a paradise for pet owners. The community’s love for pets is evident in the well-maintained public areas and the welcoming attitude of local businesses. At Viva La Pet, we love exploring these spots with our canine clients, ensuring they get the exercise, socialization, and adventure they crave.

**Join Us for a Walk!**

Ready to explore these fantastic spots with us? Book a dog walking session with Viva La Pet and let’s hit the trails together. Whether it's a high-energy hike or a leisurely park stroll, we’re here to make sure your dog has the best day ever.

Stay tuned for more tips, stories, and recommendations from the team at Viva La Pet Until next time, happy walking and wagging!

Celebrate Active Dog Month with us! Sign Up Your Pup for Daily Adventures!

Welcome to April, aptly deemed "Active Dog Month”, where we celebrate the boundless energy and joyful spirit of our furry friends! As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, it's the perfect time to get your dog moving and grooving with daily adventures. And what better way to do that than by signing up with to be a member of our VIP #VLPgang?

Here at Viva La Pet, we understand the importance of keeping your dog active and happy. Dogs are not just pets; they are beloved members of our families who deserve the best care and attention. That's why your dogs have been our forefront since 2004! We’re dedicated to providing top-notch dog walking services that cater to your dog's unique needs and preferences which helps to keep them healthy and thriving in countless ways.

Why should you consider daily dog walking for your furry companion? Let's dive into the benefits:

Physical Exercise: Just like humans, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy and fit. Daily walks help them burn off excess energy, maintain a healthy weight, and improve cardiovascular health.

Mental Stimulation: A variety of sights, sounds, and smells during walks can stimulate your dog's mind and prevent boredom. This mental stimulation is crucial for their overall well-being and can reduce destructive behaviors at home.

Socialization Opportunities: Dog walks provide valuable socialization opportunities with the world outside of their yard, humans and the environment. It helps in building your dog's confidence, reducing anxiety, and promoting positive behavior around others.

Bonding Time: Daily walks strengthen the bond between human and dog. It's a special time for quality interactions, training reinforcement, and mutual enjoyment of the outdoors.

Health Monitoring: Our experienced dog walkers keep an eye on your dog's health during walks. Any unusual behaviors, limping, or signs of discomfort are noted and communicated to you promptly.

By signing up as a Viva La Pet VIP member, you're not just ensuring your dog gets the exercise they need—you're also investing in their overall well-being and happiness. Our team is passionate about dogs and treats every furry client with love, care, and respect.

How can you get started?

It's simple:Visit our website or give us a call to learn more about our variety of dog walking services.

Watch your dog thrive with daily adventures, exercise, and companionship!

This “Active Dog Month”, let's make a commitment to keep our dogs healthy, happy, and active. Join us in celebrating the joy of dog walking and give your furry friend the gift of daily adventures they deserve! Viva La Pet is here to make every step of your dog's journey a tail-wagging success. Sign up today and let the adventures begin!

ZOOMIES

Zoomies!

Most dog owners know exactly what the zoomies are. One minute your dog is standing next to you nice and quietly; the next Fido is running crazily back and forth at top speed. They may go in circles, jump over things, run into furniture, or chase their tails; and all the while looking as happy as can be.

Zoomies, or what we call them in our home, “pigging”, actually have a formal name Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAP). So why do zoomies happen and could they be dangerous?

Many dogs get zoomies after hopping out of the tub, if they've been inside too long, or when they want to play. However, sometimes they happen when a dog is a bit confused or slightly stressed, and they need to burn off excess nervous energy.

Zoomies are considered normal canine activity and watching our pups get the zoomies is doggone fun! They happen more in puppies or younger dogs, but many dogs keep zooming all their lives. If your dog has zoomies all the time, you might want to consider how much exercise your best friend is getting every day. If you feel your dog is zooming due to stress, try and remove the stressor.

That being said, zoomies are not a dangerous activity as long as they take place in a safe spot. Inside a dog could slip on a rug, fall down stairs, or knock over kids or elderly people. Outside it's imperative that your dog is in a fenced-in area away from traffic dangers. If they happen and your dog is unleashed in an open area, don't chase them, that makes them keep zooming. Stay calm and call them (hopefully you are consistently training them to come). Offer them a toy or treat to distract them so you can get them to a safe place to zoom.

Next time your dog gets that explosion of crazy energy, the zoomies, enjoy them, your dog is having a healthy and exhilarating moment.

See a video of “pigging” or more commonly referred to as the “zoomies” below.