We can't get to the dog park every day, and sometimes we want a change in the ol' around-the-block routine, so our go-to is the Houston Arboretum. Instead of sniffing the same fire hydrants and garbage cans, your pooch can enjoy the olfactory bliss of the Palmetto Multi-sensory Trail, the Carol Tatkon Sensory Garden, the R.A. Vines Trail, the Biomimicry Trail and other beautiful paths. You've got to keep your little fur-friend on a leash, since there are snakes and poison ivy, but the little guy or gal will be able to experience the sights, sounds and smells of an urban forest, shallow wetland, and more wild plants and flowers than you can shake a tail at. It's not only an explosion of awesome scents for your dog, but a nice change of scenery from the same old sidewalks and mailboxes you've passed a million times.