PET FRIENDLY Brown University

Brown faculty have been involved in some interesting research on very different fronts involving pets. In one, researchers are working with Hasbro to design robotic dogs and cats to help older adults, particularly those beginning to suffer from dementia, to accomplish what should be simple tasks, like taking their medication. In another, a Brown researcher was involved in a study that shows that African wild dogs sneeze when they are ready to hunt; the more sneezes, the more likely the pack will hunt. Definitely doesn't work that way with our dogs; they always seem mildly surprised when they sneeze.

Brown, as well as the Rhode Island School of Design, is located in Providence, which is at the head of Narragansett Bay. It has the added charm of Providence River, which runs through the center of the city.

There are plenty of dog friendly bars and restaurants for you and your pooch to check out when you're visiting. We love the eclectic menu at Rogue Island, which includes Bahn Mi Mac & Cheese and Crab Cake with Black Garlic Aioli. Or let your pup get his inner Dalmatian on and go to Ladder 133 Bar & Grille http://www.ladder133.com. This restaurant located in a renovated firehouse has a fantastic pet friendly deck that offers a tasty pub style menu with twists, like Bang Bang Shrimp and Soft Truffle Pretzels.

And when you're done, walk it off at one of the many dog parks in Providence. Bell Street Dog Park is particularly nice, located right behind Bell Street Chapel, as is Waterman Street Dog Park, which has nice open spaces for Fido to do the crazy dog, as well as lovely wooded areas and paths.