Tails of Stonington Borough: Where Dogs Rule
Stonington Borough is a place where pets aren’t just tolerated, they’re celebrated! Leashed dogs are welcome here. With access to outdoor areas, trails, and a designated dog park adjacent to the town dock, there are ample opportunities for dogs to exercise, socialize, and enjoy our seaside paradise.
Walk around town and you’ll find businesses welcoming dogs with water bowls and merchandise that caters to a canine clientele. Coral offers Pendleton dog beds and customizable bone-shaped pillows. Stonington Linens sells cute countertop dog food canisters. You’ll find bowls by The Vegan Potter at Ship Shape Shop, whose artistic owner, Adrienne Pratt, paints charming pet portraits.
Roxy, Lucia, Jasmine, siblings Bentley and Chester, Nelly Bly, Paris, Casper, Pennie, and Ollie (may he rest in peace) are just a few of the beloved canine Borough residents Adrienne has painted.
Pet portraits by artist Adrienne Pratt of Porkchopstick Studios
The Stonington Free Library has a dog library where you can take a stick or leave a stick. There’s a doggy water fountain at the playground, and Wayland’s Wharf, the Borough’s public pier, is a great spot for a swim. Dogs can jump off the dock and paddle back with an easy climb out of the water.
Maggie’s pup Finn (of Maggie Lee Design) out on the harbor
Grab a pup cup of ice cream at the Boro Bodega and Scoopery, a sliver of bacon at Noah’s Restaurant, or a free dog bone at Indulge. Tom’s News and General Store is a very popular spot, with many “regulars” who return again and again in anticipation of a treat. Even the Velvet Mill, home to artists, shops, and creative businesses, is dog-friendly.
Many of our shop owners’ pets spend the days with them by their side, like Poppy at Grand & Water Antiques, Finn at Maggie Lee Designs, and Vinchenzo (Vinnie) and Gustavo (Gus) at Tucci Design.
Pets play a big part in community celebrations too. Dogs march along with residents and town officials every Fourth of July for our annual parade and the Pup Parade, held in 2022, was a full day of doggy events including vendors, trainers, contests, and an adoption meet and greet.
If you’re a dog-lover looking for a paw-some adventure, look no further than Stonington Borough!