Medicine Hat local Becca Weisgerber (@shopaholicyxh) and her five-year-old Rat Terrier named Reggie spent two days in Medicine Hat exploring the paved trails, visiting the locally-owned shops, and sitting in the sunshine on buzzing patios.

The two started their adventure on foot. Becca found photos and the length of each trail using AllTrails. The clean pathways of North Shore River Valley, Jefferies Trail, and Sunrise to Cottonwood led Becca and Reggie to beautiful views, including a panoramic, scenic sight of Downtown Medicine Hat.

“There are so many trails to choose from, and they all offer different qualities. On a hot day, it’s especially nice to have those shady trails to stay cool,” says Becca. “The city has potable water stations on the trails as well, so you don’t need to carry water for your dog. All I brought was his collapsible dish, and I’d fill it when we passed a potable water station.”

Medicine Hat has an average of 330 days of sunshine a year and is home to a 155-kilometre trail system. A Heritage Trail Map was also designed for a bird’s eye view of the city when planning to be on the trails.

During day two, Becca and Reggie stopped at four small shops in Downtown Medicine Hat. Reggie had another friendly pup to say hello to at Botanicals. At 7 Rivers Trading Co, he was greeted with a treat by the owner. As they wandered the downtown, Becca popped into DYL Fashions and River Bee Books and found they were also dog-friendly.

“Our downtown is so walkable. You can hit so many unique small shops during the day. My biggest advice to someone traveling with a dog is to pop in or call beforehand to ask if a store is pet-friendly. Reggie was so happy going into each store. He loved meeting the business owners, and everyone else in the store was so excited when they saw Reggie, too,” says Becca.

A morning wandering the historic streets, to then enjoying brunch on the pet-friendly patio at Medicine Hat Brewing Company. The server immediately brought over a water dish for Reggie, and a refreshment for Becca. The two enjoyed a meal, with some more sun, to finish their weekend exploring.

When Becca travels with Reggie, it’s easier for her when places are receptive to being pet-friendly. It’s always too hot to leave him in the car, she doesn’t feel comfortable tying him up, and the hotel room isn’t ideal when she’s out exploring for most of the day. When she can bring her dog, it brings a sense of ease. And the two love spending time together.

“Our time exploring Medicine Hat was a great outing for him, too. Having places be pet-friendly, and there being so many trails, made the city feel more like home. You feel that local love, and it’s very welcoming.”