BETTER CITIES FOR PETS™ certified cities have programs and policies that make it easier for pets and pet owners to live a happy, healthy life together. Certified in the BETTER CITIES FOR PETS™ program in 2024, Kitchener, Ontario scored especially well in the Homes trait of our pet-friendly cities model.

The city boasts a local non-profit organization, Dog Friendly KW, that gives pet parents everything they need regarding dog-friendly amenities and events. It’s also home to pet-friendly businesses like Together We’re Bitter Brewing, pictured above, and Gifted, a dog-friendly gift shop with dog-inspired items.

Kitchener’s Mayor on Being Pet Friendly

“Kitchener is absolutely thrilled to be certified as Canada’s first pet-friendly city, speaking to City Council’s commitment to making Kitchener a great place to live, work and play. Our fast-growing and vibrant city is welcoming to all residents, including the beloved pets that enjoy our pet-friendly businesses, events and parks. Thanks to Dog Friendly KW for leading the assessment process to name Kitchener the first certified Pet-Friendly city in Canada.”

– Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic

Find Out More

• Kitchener website
• Dog Friendly KW
• Dog Parks and Trails
• Dog-Friendly Places
• Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth