Great dog getaways

With diamond-studded collars, gourmet food and designer clothes, dogs are now more than just a pet—they are part of the family. With family member status come perks that include vacationing. So if your readers are traveling with their pooches, Nebraska has plenty of pet-friendly opportunities. Luxurious Boutique Weekend—Indulge your dog with a lavish weekend in Omaha. Check into the Doubletree by Hilton Omaha Downtown, which is known for its signature chocolate chip cookies but also offers dog biscuits for your furry friend, and explore several wonderful nearby parks. Spend the day shopping at specialty dog boutiques such as Luxe Pet Boutique & Spa and The Green Spot. Hit the dog park for some socializing then treat Fido to a blueberry facial at Spaw. Visit in April to enjoy the Spring Bark in the Park carnival, or introduce your dog to some serious culture during the very pet-friendly Shakespeare on the Green or Jazz on the Green. Summer Wine and Food Tour —Start the day off at Howlin’ Hounds Coffee, a dog-friendly coffee bar in Omaha dedicated to providing premium service and products for dogs and their humans. Then stop at Omaha’s Three Dog Bakery, the country’s leading gourmet pet bakery, and stock up on all-natural fresh-baked treats. On Sunday, head to WunderRosa Winery in Roca where your furry friends are welcome to walk through the vineyard and relax while you sample the wines. Be sure to stop in Lincoln at the Parthenon Greek Grill and Taverna for “Dine with Your Dog” on Tuesday evenings on the patio, which features a dog food buffet. Events that Have Gone to the Dogs—Whether bringing your dog to compete or to see other dogs compete, there is no shortage of events to choose from throughout the year.

• Woofstock, North Platte, May 18—An annual festival for dogs (and their humans) that includes look-alike contests, groomers, and other activities plus vendors with specials on animal care products and accessories. This is a yearly fundraiser for Pawsitive Partners, a local non-profit organization that focuses on promoting responsible pet ownership
• GermanFest, Syracuse, July 13—In addition to celebrating German heritage, this festival features Viener Dog Races and Viener Vogue, a fashion show for dachshunds. 
• Dog Daze of Summer Dog Show, West Point, July 25—Indulge your dog’s competitive spirit in five categories: best dressed, best matched to owner, best groomed, scruffiest and best trick. There’s even a human bark off contest.
• Pug-O-Ween, Omaha, Oct. 27—Omaha’s largest yearly pug gathering. Hundreds of pugs and people rocking costumes and raising money for Pug Partners of Nebraska.
• I Love My Dog Expo, Lincoln, February 2014—Attracting thousands of dog lovers of all ages and interests, the expo offers entertainment, games, training demonstrations and plenty of shopping. All proceeds benefit Domesti-PUPS, an all-volunteer service organization that provides assistance dogs for persons with disabilities, pet therapy programs, classrooms and educational programs.