Dog Dayz of Summer: Chicago Dog-Friendly Events

Summertime in the Chi. The most anticipated time of the year for Chicagoans. After months of sub-zero temperatures, excessive cab fares, crowded bars and commuting while wearing half your wardrobe, we all are ready for some time in the sun. Especially the four-legged members of our community.

Let’s face it, as much as we hate being cooped up indoors during the Winter it can be equally depressing for our pets. Dog park? Forget it. Long walks? Better have boots and a coat. Picking up after your dog in the snow? Worst thing ever (but necessary – don’t be a jerk!).

So Chicagoans here we are, on the cusp of July. By now I’m sure you’ve got your own routine down with your dog and your other dog owner friends. Personally, I’m a fan of packing a few cocktails and going to the park but sometimes I like to switch it up. I want to let you know of a few little swanky dog-friendly events going on within the Bucktown and West Town areas.

First up on the Cheap Ass pet calendar is Lotties Pub located at 1925 W. Cortland Ave in Bucktown. This bar is one of my personal favorites. Super friendly, good food and specials, old Chicago styled pub and of course…a dog friendly patio. If you’re looking for something to do this July 4th before your festivities start or just want a change of pace check out their Independence Day Celebration benefiting the Veterans Service Dog Program! Featured specials include:

$4 – Two Chicago Style Hotdogs (100% of the proceeds go to the program)
$4 Fireball (c’mon, it’s America’s birthday)
$15 Buckets of Veterans Beer (not sure which brew will be served, heard this stuff is good though)
Dog Body Art available
Doggie Fro-Yo

If you can’t make it to Lotties Pub this 4th no need to worry. The Rush and Division group are hosting the West Town Pup Crawl. A “Yappy Hour” event every Tuesday night from 6-9pm until 10/16/2015. What they’re doing is at select venues the have happy hour specials for humans and some dog treats, beverages and gear for your pawsome partner. 15% of the sales from the evening will go to a different rescue each week. Featured venues include:

Mahoney’s Pub & Grille, 551 N. Ogden Ave
- $2 Tacos
- $5 Margaritas
G&O (Grand and Ogden), 459 N. Ogden Ave
- $5 House-Batched Cocktails
- $6 Burgers
The Aberdeen Tap, 440 N. Aberdeen St
- $1 Drafts
- $5 Wings
The Matchbox, 770 N. Milwaukee Ave
- $7 Pooch Hooch Punch
- $5 Old Style Tall Boy w/Bartender’s choice of shot