Pamper Your Pet During the Dog Days of Summer!

According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the Dog Days of summer are traditionally the 40 days beginning in July and ending in August which coincide with the dawn rising of Sirius, the Dog Star. The ancient Egyptians thought that the combined heat of Sirius and the Sun caused midsummer’s sweltering weather. Of course, the appearance of Sirius doesn’t actually affect the weather, but the “Dog Days” connection with sultry summer heat has continued to this day!

So now that the Dog Days are upon us, it’s time to treat your pooch to some extra special pampering. Here are some great tips from WebMD for keeping Fido cool and comfortable.

No pet, no problem! Why not adopt a furry friend of your own! You can even rent a rescue dog for a hike in Runyon Canyon! LA is packed with perks, pop-ups, and parks to keep those tails a waggin’ during the Dog Days of Summer!

Original Dog Rescue Hike

The Original Rescue Dog Hike

Did you know you can rent a rescue dog for a romp in Runyon Canyon? The Original Rescue Dog Hike was created by Free Animal Doctor cofounder Ryan Boyd to raise money for his animal welfare nonprofit. Angelenos a great opportunity to meet some adorable, adoptable pets, and dogs get a chance to exercise and socialize. The hikes are done in a group of up to 12 hikers, plus the dogs. Upon arrival, everyone gets a few minutes to sniff each other out, then grab a leash for the three-mile trek. If you bring your own dog along, they’re allowed to join the pack as long as they’re friendly to the other dogs.

PetPop

PetPop 2020 E 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

July 11 – Sept 30 The first pet themed pop up experience has landed in DTLA! PetPop is the ultimate pop-up photo experience now in Los Angeles for a limited time! Imagine witnessing a pack of balloon dogs on a group stroll, only to be caught in a downpour of cats and dogs (literally), while on your way to a spin class on the world’s largest hamster wheel?! How about immersing yourself in more spots than 101 Dalmatians ever imagined before transcending into an enormous dog bowl ball pit, only to find out that this was only the beginning? Over 15 fanciful pet-themed rooms await your pleasure, with something for all animal lovers! Every PetPop ticket supports their pet adoption organization partners – over 20 animals have found homes in the first month!

Pussy & Pooch

Pussy & Pooch Pethouse and Pawbar 564 S Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

You lead a stylish life and your pet companion should, too. That’s the thinking behind Pussy & Pooch, an adventurous destination where convenience meets community in a design-forward, social experience for pets and people. With a focus on nutrition and green living, the store is dedicated to providing a playful and edgy twist to the traditional pet store experience. Services include pet grooming, pet dental, and pet parties, along with an insane array of boutique pet toys, furniture and accessories. Pussy & Pooch offers convenient local delivery, and in-store and curbside pick-up for online orders.

Pet Project LA

Pet Project LA 548 S. Spring St. Ste. 107 Los Angeles, CA 90013

Pet Project LA wants to show your fur babies the love! And to keep your pet piqued, their vast inventory is constantly curated to support the DTLA community with creative products for dogs, cats and small animals. Offerings include seasonal pet apparel, pet party supplies, grooming products, bowls, carriers, e-collars, and food & treats from all your favorite brands. Pet Project LA offers same-day delivery with local courier PDQ. Find out more info about them here.

Sticks and Pinecone

Sticks and Pinecone 600 W 9th St. Ste.135, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Sticks and Pinecone is a community-driven small business offering pet products and small dog daycare services. They carry only the highest quality dog and cat food and uniquely curated toys, treats, clothing, leashes, beds, bowls, accessories and more. Their goal is to promote healthy and happy lifestyles with our family of pets and pet owners by creating authentic relationships and providing a one-of-a-kind retail and small dog day care experience.

LA Live Dog Park

L.A. Live Dog Park L.A. Live Way Los Angeles, CA 90015

Located On L.A. Live Way, just west of the parking garage behind Regal Cinemas, L.A. Live Off-Leash Dog Park is a fenced-in landscaped park fitted with benches and water fountains. There are designated areas for both small and large dogs to exercise with similar sized friends, and both sections are stocked with waste bags. The park is patrolled by L.A. Live security officers, with surveillance cameras and an emergency call box for extra safety.

Arts District Dog Park

Arts District Dog Park 1004 E 4th Street Los Angeles, CA 90013

In 2009, Los Angeles River Artists and Business Association (LARABA) launched the Arts District Dog Park Park project. True to its creative surroundings, the park is punctuated with colorful murals from LA artist Septerhed. The parks includes a dog water fountain, separate small dog area, shade trees, benches for humans, a community bulletin board, pooper-scoopers, and trash bins. Not run or supported by the City of Los Angeles, this volunteer-run park is a true example of community spirit. While the land is being generously loaned to the community, there are yearly operational costs to cover. You can help keep the Arts District Dog Park open to the public with a donation to cover operational costs.

Spring Street Park

Spring Street Park 428 S Spring Street Los Angeles, CA 90013

Spring Street Park brings a substantial and much-needed green space to DTLA’s Historic Core. A former parking lot has been transformed to a lawn, playground, and seating area nestled in the shadow of luxury lofts. This small park allows dogs to fun free, and humans a chance to relax and linger in this fascinating neighborhood. The park also has a children’s play area and concentric walkways circling the lawn. The park provides security and is cleaned every morning. Make sure you observe the poo poo rules-they can be quite strict!

Downtown Dog Rescue

Downtown Dog Rescue

Around twenty years ago, Lori Weise started working at Modernica Inc., a furniture factory near L.A.’s Skid Row. On her drive to work she saw countless homeless people and their dogs — many being abused, suffering, and starving. An animal lover at heart, as well as a calm, strong advocate for justice, this reality led to her creation of Downtown Dog Rescue, which she began at the back of the Modernica factory. Since then, Downtown Dog Rescue has paid for thousands of spay/neuter surgeries, has placed or fostered thousands of dogs, and has provided meals for many animals and the people who love them, whether they be homeless or just need a helping hand. Meet the rescue dogs here.

LA Animal Services

LA Animal Services

Looking to adopt a furry friend? LA Animal Services is a wealth of information for prospective pet parents, including adopting a pet, finding a lost pet, licensing, animal vaccinations, spay/neuter information, microchipping, and what to do if you find a stray animal. Search for your perfect animal companion on the website’s Adoptable Pet Search. All cat, dogs and rabbits adopted from an L.A. Animal Services will have a microchip. The cost of microchipping is included in the adoption fee.

 

Freshen Up! Where to Find the Best Produce in DTLA

Summer heat getting your down? Time to freshen up with a luscious fruit salad, colorful veggie platter, or thirst-quenching agua fresca – a chilled drink made of fresh fruit blended with water, lime juice, and a bit of sweetener. Try your hand at making a soul-satisfying ratatouille, accompanied by a fresh baguette or pane rustica. Or fire up the grill for roasted vegetables, brushed with olive oil and garnished with fresh herbs. The possibilities are endless – from Grand Central Market to specialty grocery stores, weekly farmers markets, and even a fruit-themed pop up – you’ll find a cornucopia of fresh produce in DTLA!

Urban Radish

Urban Radish 661 Imperial St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Urban Radish is a family-owned market carrying everything from cereal to hand-cut meats to local berries. This cutely-monikered establishment is also an eatery, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. In addition to their eclectic menu of grills, soups, sandwiches, and  salads, their latest offering is fresh sushi, made in-house. The proprietors like to see themselves as curators, creators and matchmakers, serving the community with good food. Indeed, their wine room boasts some 300 labels, with a focus on small producers and organic/biodynamic production at a range of price points (most is under $30).

Smorgasburg LA

Smorgasburg LA ROW DTLA 777 S Alameda St. Los Angeles, CA 90021

Launched in June of 2016, Smorgasburg LA has become the largest weekly open-air food market in Los Angeles, attracting 8,000 to 12,000 attendees every Sunday, year round. Located on the five-acre site of the weekday 7th Street Produce Market in ROW DTLA, Smorgasburg LA features over 90 food vendors, a beer garden offering local craft beer and micheladas, live DJs, cultural events, pop-ups, and sophisticated shopping including design, craft, style, vintage, wellness, and more. Every Sunday 10am – 4pm. Sorry, no pets allowed.

District Market

District Market Grand Central Market 317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013

A downtown landmark since 1917, Grand Central Market, brings together the cuisines and cultures of LA. If you’re shopping for fresh produce,  check out District Market, which specializes in organic, sustainable and locally-sourced fruit and vegetables, with an overall emphasis on quality, accessibility and education.

La Fruiteria

While you’re at Grand Central Market, stop by La Frutería for a refreshing bowl of fresh watermelon, jicama, mango or cucumber, drizzled with a combination of yogurt, sweetened condensed milk, and Mexican crema. These flavorful treats, which originated on street food carts in Mexico, are commonly topped with shredded coconut, raisins, and granola.​ La Frutería is also the place for the best aguas frescas in town!

Whole Foods

Whole Foods Market 788 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Located beneath the Eighth & Grand residences, this expansive 41,000 square foot Whole Foods Market was designed to meet the needs of local residents, professionals and businesses. Features include a juice bar, fresh poke, expanded vegan options in all departments, a coffee bar (with cold brew on tap), and more than 1,000 handpicked wines. Take a break at The Eight Bar, a gastropub located within Whole Foods, and enjoy beers on tap, bar food, wines by the glass, cocktails, and a rotating seasonal menu. The store provides a dedicated Instacart register and on-site storage for home delivery and personal shopping.

World of Fruit

World of Fruit 716 N La Brea Ave Los Angeles, CA 90038

World of Fruit is a new fruit-themed experience created by fruit-obsessed Los Angeles natives. Featuring eight fruit-forward rooms, World of Fruit takes guests through an interactive experience that is wholly unexpected and unforgettable. Swing into the Watermelon Playground and grab a special treat from the watermelon ice cream truck. Enjoy the light show in the Pineapple Disco Derby, and jump into the Dragon Fruit Pool before entering the World of Fruit Garden, where fruit specialists serve the very best in-season fruits from all over the world, like jackfruit, baby pineapples, rambutan, tree-ripened mangoes, strawberry papayas, and more!

Farmers Market Pershing Square copy

Certified Farmers Market @Pershing Square 532 S Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Every Wednesday, Pershing Square Farmers Market, presented in partnership with Raw Inspiration, sells garden fresh fruits, vegetables, and special delicacies. Raw Inspiration’s mission is to educate children and adults on the importance of a healthy diet, especially on the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables daily. To accompany that mission, they have set up a program where growers can distribute their produce at neighborhood farmers markets. In and around Los Angeles, nearly 2,000,000 visitors enjoy Raw Inspiration farmers markets every year.

Historic Core Farmers Market 1

Historic Core Farmers Market 5th St. (between Broadway and Spring St.) 2 blocks from Pershing Square Station

Historic Core Farmers Market, LA’s newest addition to the DTLA farmers market scene, is held every Sunday from 9AM – 2PM. In addition to fruits and vegetables, you’ll find farm-fresh eggs (free range and sprout-fed); breakfast and brunch items; sweet pastries and empanadas; Mediterranean dips and spreads; flowers and floral arrangements; natural homemade skincare products; and dog food and pooch products. Along with fresh local groceries, there’s a selection of prepared food and drinks including fresh juices and lemonade; coffee; tacos and breakfast burritos; pupusas, barbecue, curry, and much more!

Union Station Farmers Market

Union Station Train-to-Table Farmers Market Union Station 800 N Alameda St Los Angeles, CA 90012

Union Station has partnered with California Certified Farmers Markets to bring the Train-to-Table Farmers Market to Union Station’s South Patio. Every Thursday from noon – 6pm, the market features a wide array of fresh, local fruits and vegetables as well as fresh-cut flowers, artisanal baked bread, roasted coffee, and a host of small bites for a mid-day snack or dinner on the commute home. Playing to the strengths of the California climate, the historic South Patio opened in 1939 and was designed as a formal garden through which travelers (and often celebrities) exited the station. The expansive patio, featuring towering palm trees and an iconic 100-foot-tall clock tower, has evolved into a vibrant meeting place for Angelenos. The Train-to-Table Farmers Market is part of Union Station’s diverse lineup of unique events, festivals, thought-provoking cultural programs and live music throughout the year.

 

Pamper Your Pet: Perks, Parties and Parks

We love pets! Circa’s breathtaking two-acre rooftop park and amenity collection includes large & small dog parks, and a pet lounge with grooming area. But sometimes you want to come down from your gleaming tower and mingle with the vibrant city at your feet. DTLA is alive with opportunities to exercise your options–and your furry friends.

Photo of Pussy & Pooch dog

Pussy & Pooch 564 S Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

You lead a stylish, progressive life and your pet companion should, too. That’s the thinking behind Pussy & Pooch, an adventurous destination where convenience meets community in a design-forward, social experience for pets and people. With a focus on nutrition and green living, the store is dedicated to providing a playful and edgy twist to the traditional pet store experience. Services include pet grooming, pet dental, and pet parties, along with an insane array of boutique pet toys, furniture and accessories. Pussy & Pooch offers convenient local delivery, and in-store and curbside pick-up for online orders.

Pet Project LA

Pet Project LA 548 S. Spring St. Ste. 107 Los Angeles, CA 90013

Pet Project LA wants to show your fur babies the love! And to keep your pet piqued, their vast inventory is constantly curated to support the DTLA community with creative products for dogs, cats and small animals. Offerings include seasonal pet apparel, pet party supplies, grooming products, bowls, carriers, e-collars, and food & treats from all your favorite brands. The store offers local same-day delivery throughout normal business hours. As part of their Donations of the Month program, Pet Project LA is giving in-kind donations to Downtown Dog Rescue and their Pet Resource Center.

LA Live Dog Park

L.A. Live Dog Park L.A. Live Way Los Angeles, CA 90015

Located On L.A. Live Way, just west of the parking garage behind Regal Cinemas, L.A. Live Off-Leash Dog Park is a fenced-in landscaped park fitted with benches and water fountains. There are designated areas for both small and large dogs to exercise with similar sized friends, and both sections are stocked with waste bags. The park is patrolled by L.A. Live security officers, with surveillance cameras and an emergency call box for extra safety.

Art District Park

Arts District Dog Park 1004 E 4th Street Los Angeles, CA 90013

In 2009, Los Angeles River Artists and Business Association (LARABA) launched the Arts District Dog Park Park project. True to its creative surroundings, the park is punctuated with colorful murals from LA artist Septerhed. The parks includes a dog water fountain, separate small dog area, shade trees, benches for humans, a community bulletin board, pooper-scoopers, and trash bins. Not run or supported by the City of Los Angeles, this volunteer-run park is a true example of community spirit. While the land is being generously loaned to the community, there are yearly operational costs to cover. You can help keep the Arts District Dog Park open to the public with a donation to cover operational costs.

Spring Street Park

Spring Street Park 428 S Spring Street Los Angeles, CA 90013

Spring Street Park brings a substantial and much-needed green space to DTLA’s Historic Core. A former parking lot has been transformed to a lawn, playground, and seating area nestled in the shadow of luxury lofts. This small park allows dogs to fun free, and humans a chance to relax and linger in this fascinating neighborhood. The park also has a chilren’s play area and concentric wlkways circling the lawn. The park provides security and is cleaned every morning. Make sure you observe the poo poo rules-they can be quite strict!

LA Animal Services

LA Animal Services

Looking to adopt a furry friend? LA Animal Services offers a wealth of information for prospective and current pet parents, including adopting a pet, finding a lost pet, licensing, animal vaccinations, spay/neuter information, microchipping, and what to do if you find a stray animal. Search for your perfect animal companion on the website’s Adoptable Pet Search. All cats, dogs and rabbits adopted from L.A. Animal Services will have a microchip. The cost of microchipping is included in the adoption fee.

Shop DTLA’s Historic Core

Bounded by Hill Street on the West, Los Angeles Street on the East, Third Street on the North, and Olympic Boulevard on the South, the Historic Core is one of LA’s oldest and and most intriguing neighborhoods. A century ago, the intersection of Spring and Main was essentialy the Wall Street of the West, but as banking and finance migrated to Financial District skyscrapers and elsewhere, the historic streets and fell into neglect.

In 1999, the Los Angeles City Council passed an Adaptive Re-Use Ordinance, allowing for the conversion of old, unused office buildings to apartments or lofts. Developer Tom Gilmore purchased a series of century-old buildings and converted them into lofts near Main and Spring streets, a development now known as the “Old Bank District.”

Walk these storied streets and you’ll discover some of the city’s most notable architecture, such as the Eastern Columbia Building, Bradbury Building, The Edison, and the Broadway Theatre District, featuring the largest number of old movie palaces in the United States. The Historic Core is also dotted with eclectic shops, art galleries, bars, and restaurants, and destinations like the Grand Central Market.

Ready to start exploring? Historic Core BID Walking Guide here. “Walk the Historic Core” printed map guides are available at Grand Central Market, The Last Bookstore, Ace Hotel, IndieDesk, Ilcaffe, Gelateria Uli, and other retailers around the neighborhood.

Pocket Square Founders

Pocket Square Clothing Flagship Store 205 W 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90014

Established in 2011 as an LA-inspired men’s accessory brand, Pocket Square Clothing has become an incubator for the burgeoning LA menswear movement. With no formal fashion training, founders Rodolfo and Andrew have created a lifestyle brand beyond clothing, geared toward the modern urban gentleman. Starting with the bow tie, their collection features menswear staples, a plethora of accessories, and Made to Measure suiting and shirting. Pocket Square Clothing takes pride in its domestic manufacturing and attention to detail. Using traditional techniques, everything is carefully handcrafted by some of the oldest remaining craftsmen in the heart of Los Angeles. Each piece comes with a narrative and fully handcrafted vintage inspired packaging.

BNKR

BNKR 901 S Broadway & W 9th St. Los Angeles, CA 90015

From its humble beginnings as a small online retailer in Australia, BNKR has quickly expanded to become a global company specializing in premium Australian fashion. Located on the ground level of the historic Blackstone Apartments, the 6,000 square foot BNKR flagship store takes up the entire corner of the building, with a minimalistic storefront and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows facing the street. The only retailer to stock the full ranges of C/MEO COLLECTIVE, Finders Keepers, Keepsake and The Fifth, BNKR presents a fresh selection of clothing, accessories and footwear from street style to classic, and everything in between. BNKR’s labels are a favorite of international celebrities, bloggers and street style stars, including Cara Delevingne, Jessica Alba, the Kardashian and Jenner sisters, Solange Knowles, Song Of Style, and Margaret Zhang of Shine By Three.

Aesop

Aesop Downtown LA 862 S. Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90014

LA is clearly getting Aussie-fied! Headquartered in Melbourne, with offices and stores around the world, Aesop is your go-to for deliciously aromatic skin, hair, and body care formulations, along with fragrances, sprays for the home, and gift and travel kits. Since its inception in 1987, Aesop has sourced the finest quality plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients from across the globe, with a proven record of safety and efficacy. Ready for a facial detox? Try the Parsley Seed collection, featuring Cleansing Masque, Anti-Oxidant Serum, Anti-Oxidant Facial Treatment, and Anti-Oxidant Facial Toner. Nourish and purify your skin with Geranium Leaf Body Scrub, an invigorating blend of Pumice, Bamboo Stem, and purifying botanical oils that sloughs away tired cells and leaves skin cleansed and smooth, perfectly prepared for hydration. For a relaxing respite, cleanse, calm and warm your skin with Coriander Seed Body Cleanser, a richly aromatic formulation enhanced with Coriander Seeds and Black Peppercorns.

Photo of Raw Materials Inventory

Raw Materials Art Supplies 436 S Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

Raw Materials Art Supplies is a rare commodity these days—an independent art supply store in the heart Downtown Los Angeles. Hunkered down in a bright, minimalist space, Raw Materials stocks thousands of art supplies, tools, and materials at every-day low prices, including many top brands of paints, stretched canvas, and brushes. The store has partnered with Castelli Art Framing, to offer professional custom fine art framing services to the downtown community. Raw Materials handles the design work in their store on Main Street, where you can drop off and pick up your artwork, certificates, or other pieces to be framed, or you can arrange for pick-up and delivery at your office or residence. Celebrity customers include painter Salomon Huerta,whose work is exhibited and collected all over the world, including the Whitney Museum, National Portrait Gallery, Hammer Museum, LACMA, and MCA San Diego.

Last Bookstore

The Last Bookstore 453 S Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90013

A true DTLA treasure, The Last Bookstore is California’s largest used and new book and record store. Named one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world by Flavorwire, The Last Book Store is housed in a stunning 22,000 square-foot space in the Spring Arts Tower at 5th & Spring. Currently in its third incarnation, the store began in 2005 in a downtown LA loft, when owner Josh Spencer took his decade of experience selling everything from cars to clothes online and focused instead on his first love: books. According to Spencer, the name was chosen with irony, but seems more appropriate with each passing day, as physical bookstores die out like dinosaurs from the meteoric impact of Amazon and e-books. In addition to over 250,000 new and used books on two floors, including the Arts & Rare Book Annex, the shared space includes tens of thousands of vinyl records and graphic novels, and a huge mezzanine level featuring the Labyrinth Above the Last Bookstore, Gather Yarn Shop, and the Spring Arts Collective gallery shops.