As a full-time college student and mother to an Australian Shepherd, I realize how hard it can be to balance a social life while having a dog. There is not enough time in the day to complete homework, work a part-time job, go to class and hangout with friends while making sure the dog is not locked indoors all day. Luckily we live in Austin, one of the best cities for a furry friend. It seems like everywhere you look, Austinites are parading their pups around town — but of course, some places just are not pet friendly. While my pup would be happy at Zilker any day of the week, I’ve found five unexpected places in Austin that he and I can also enjoy

By Brianna Holt

The Domain

With popular stores like Apple, H&M and Nordstrom, the Domain welcomes any shopaholic Austinite and their pampered pups. The outdoor shopping mall allows dogs to go inside any store, as long as they are on a leash. You will even find water bowls waiting for your dog in front of H&M and Louis Vuitton. Although state law prohibits dogs from being inside the restaurants, a majority of the outdoor patios are dog-friendly, too.

Lustre Pearl Bar

How many of us are guilty of leaving our dogs at home when going out on a Friday night? Don’t pass up on another night out to stay in with your pooch — Lustre Pearl on Rainey Street encourages folks to bring their dogs. The pub has a medium-sized backyard with a high fence to keep your dog from roaming the streets while you enjoy a beer or two.

Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake is known for being full of dogs and their owners from dusk to dawn, but did you know that your dog can paddle-board with you? Rowing Dock ATX at Lady Bird Lake has life jackets made specifically for dogs. Grab your furry friend on a hot day and take them on a paddle boarding adventure — just be sure they have all their shots.

Banger’s Sausage House

Taking your dog to a restaurant usually means cringing at their hunger whines through the entire meal. Eating in front of your dog is the worst, especially because most veterinarians say table scraps are a huge, “No way, Jose.” However, Banger’s Sausage House hosts Mutt Monday every third Monday of the month, from 5-7 p.m. The restaurant features dog sausage — a mix of pork, beef and veggies — along with a dog run so Spot can make new friends while you chomp down on your own sausage. In addition to the pet-friendly options, owners can enjoy half-off all pints, free dog training lessons, grooming and giveaways.

Bow Wow Chow

Bow Wow Chow, founded by local Lara Enzor, is the first mobile food truck for dogs in Texas. The truck offers various healthy and natural treats as well as a range of toys and accessories for all breeds and sizes. Next time you are getting ready to take your dog out for a walk or a day at the park, check @BowWowChowATX on Twitter for up-to-the-minute truck location information.