Images courtesy of Visit Queanbeyan-Palerang [QPRC]
1. Dog- Friendly On-Lead Walks
Take Fido on an inner city sojourn along the iconic Queanbeyan River Walk or through the lovely Queanbeyan Park.
To get amongst nature you can take your dog to the Blue Tile Walk at Molonglo Gorge, just remember this one’s a moderate workout, so pack plenty of water for the both of you.
Dogs can also join you on a trip to Mount Jerrabomberra Lookout and Walking Track, but again, they must be on their leads.
The Queanbeyan-Oaks Estate Walk is super pretty and has spots where your pupper can actually go off-leash and have a paddle in the river.
2. Off-Leash Dog Parks
The Scar Dog Park and BMX Track in Karabar is absolutely fantastic with two fenced areas for off-leash play. There’s also a recessed water area for them to have a splash and purpose-built obstacles for extra enrichment and fun.
Over in Braidwood, Bicentennial Park is popular with the pups and their owners.
Barkley Dog Park in Googong is massive and has loads to sniff and explore, including a huge dam for getting muddy.
Also in Googong, you’ll find Rockley Dog Park and the adorably named Scentral Bark…. so good!
Check out the full list of dog parks in the Queanbeyan region here.
3. Nature Reserves
Bungendore’s most popular off-leash spot is the reserve at Turallo Terrace and McMahon Drive. With Turallo Creek running through it and plenty of space to zoom around, it’s a doggo’s dream.
Dogs are welcome at Wilkins Park in Captain’s Flat but must be kept on a leash. Hot tip: You and your canine companion can even camp here for FREE if you’re looking for a little adventure.
4. Pet-Friendly Cafes
Paws up who loves a good puppaccino?
The Mill Cafe in Queanbeyan is super dog-friendly, with plenty of outdoor space. It’s also not far from the start of the Queanbeyan-Oaks Estate Walk, so you can make it a whole doggy’s day out.
Cafe Woodworks and The Gathering Cafe in Bungendore are great spots to visit with your pups, and in Braidwood, Provisions Deli & Creperie is just as welcoming for furry friends.
5. Pet Services
For vet care and check-ups, there is a great selection of local pet specialists. Some picks include Jerrabomberra Veterinary Clinic, Queanbeyan Veterinary Hospital, Braidwood Veterinary Surgery, Bungendore Vet Surgery and Googong Veterinary Centre. And more in our directory.
Keep your fur baby looking fresh with a visit to a local grooming service. The Dawg Studio in Queanbeyan offers a variety of packages and daycare, and Bliss Fur Dogs in Bungendore caters to pups of all sizes with washes and trims. Check out our directory for more local pet grooming options.
For pet sitting, Sonza Veterinary Clinic looks after both cats and dogs, Braidwood Animal Minding offers at-home care and will even water your garden while you’re away, and Kip Canberra in Queanbeyan has luxury dog villas for your pampered pooch.
6. Pet-Friendly Accommodation
Looking for a staycation where you can bring the pups along?
Golden Age Motor Inn and River Motel offer pet-friendly rooms. Queanbeyan Riverside Caravan Park also welcomes pets.
And, if you are bringing a van or a tent, both Braidwood Showground and Bungendore Showground are pet-friendly too.
7. Adoption And Welfare Services
If all this talk about pets has made you keen for a new furry friend, then you could consider adopting.
The Queanbeyan Animal Management Facility rehomes lost pets that have not been claimed with everything from kittens to sheep [yes, sheep].
To support locals doing great things for our critters, consider donating to Jerabat Springs Animal Refuge. They’re dedicated to caring for orphaned and injured animals to treat, raise, and release them back into the wild.