STORIES ADOPT A DOG

Month: <span>June 2022</span>

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Walk, wag and wine taste through Santa Cruz County history

DogTrekkers tell us they like to look through the destinations we cover through a historical lens, and Santa Cruz County has it all. From the impeccably restored 19th century Victorians to old lime kilns that helped build San Francisco, Santa Cruz County has many unique and historical treasures waiting to be discovered, enjoyed, and sniffed – sniffed? Yes! Bring the pup along as you walk, wag, wine taste, and more through Santa Cruz County history. Here are some historic destinations for you and your dog to explore:  Take a walk in the historical downtown district Hike to the lime kilns at Pogonip All aboard a historic train through the redwoods Wine taste at a historic winery Other historical points of interest
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Playtime with your pup in the East Bay’s big back yard

Yes, San Francisco traffic congestion can be a turnoff, but head to the East Bay and you’ll be amazed by all the open-to-the-public lands at your disposal – not to mention dozens of boutique wineries and, in spring, emerald-green, oak-dotted hills that beckon as invitingly to dogs as to their people. Here are some of our favorite destinations in the dog-friendly East Bay: Stay and play in Vacaville Conquer Concord with your pup Can you Suisun? If you haven’t, go soon! Putting paws to paths around Concord
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Take a walk in the historical downtown district

Just a short stroll from the contemporary shops of downtown Santa Cruz, you’ll find some of the city’s most elaborate Victorian homes along the charming, tree-lined Walnut Avenue. For more detail, download a hugely informative walking tour map from the City of Santa Cruz. After you strolled the historical neighborhood, head back downtown for some dog-friendly patio dining at Walnut Avenue Cafe – a spot known for its great breakfast, brunch, and lunch options, plus a dog menu!
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Yosemite gushers

Late winter and early spring are great times to visit Yosemite National Park, but be sure to read up on the rules regarding pets before you go. Hotels inside park boundaries don’t allow pets, but pet-friendly places to curl up (click on lodging type and use the pet-friendly filter) are abundant elsewhere in Mariposa County. In Yosemite Valley, the premier winter/spring waterfall hike leads to Lower Yosemite Fall, the most accessible of three stair-stepped cascades that comprise America’s tallest cataract at 2,425 feet in total height.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Moving water in Marin

It’s not the easiest waterfall hike in Marin County, but Cataract Falls, on the north flank of Mount Tamalpais, is easily the Bay Area’s most popular waterfall destination. It roars and gets really big after a spring rain, spouting nine silvery cascades, some 50 and more feet high, plunging down the Cataract Creek streambed. The surrounding forest, with its moss-covered rocks, ferns, tan oaks and coast redwoods, can seem a kind of emerald-green, fairy-tale kind of place.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Explore Sacramento’s ‘big back yard’ with your pup

As the seasons change and the smoke from Northern California wildfires gives way to crystal-blue skies, opportunities for exploring Sacramento and the destinations in its “big back yard” expand. Make the state capital your home base and take off from there. Here is the best of dog-friendly Sacramento and neighboring communities: Capital canine discoveries East to the foothills and apples galore Raise a glass to the dog-friendly delta Tail-waggin' fun in Folsom and surrounds
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Local, accurate, engaging and committed

DogTrekker.com pioneered the Four-Paw Promise: We provide you, our readers, with localized, dog-friendly listings for 18 regions, 58 counties and over 700 towns and municipalities. We share accurate details that simplify the trip-planning process. We tell engaging stories about where, when and how to have tail-waggin’ fun with pups across California. We remain committed to supporting the Golden State’s rescue and adoption organizations. Our writers and editors draw upon 250 years of collective on-the-road and on-the-trail experience to spotlight the best places to stay, dine, swim, sip wine, camp, canoe and enjoy dozens of other dog-friendly activities. Some options will surprise you! Find more ideas for dog-friendly California fun…
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Hitch a ride with this dog-friendly river outfitter

Nine miles. Four to six hours. Countless tail wags, big smiles. A float or paddle on a secluded section of the Russian River is a DogTrekker must-do for visitors to Sonoma County. With your water-crazy dog aboard in a custom-made SOAR, inflatable canoe from Russian River Adventures, you’ll explore a section of the river downstream from Healdsburg and linger at swimming holes and beaches along the way. Boats are limited this year, so book soon.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Around Keswick Reservoir with your pup – Redding hikes

For a dog-friendly, close-to-town hike offering some unusual scenery, check out the trails around Keswick Dam, which creates an after-bay (Keswick Reservoir) for Shasta Lake. The water, released from the lower reaches of the lake, is very cold and turquoise-blue in color. Anglers and kayakers love it, but it’s not safe for a casual dip. The Sacramento River Rail Trail, which hugs the reservoir, is paved for 11 miles and is an ideal path to hike with your dog while taking in some scenery.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

First-time dog camper? Make a list, check it twice

Packing for a camping trip with your pooch is pretty much the same as for any other road trip, but there are a few extras to consider. California leash laws allow leashed dogs in campsites, but don’t take a chance by letting your pup wander around loose. Think ahead about how you will keep her confined within the boundaries of your space. A leash around a picnic table leg will work, but you don’t want to be tripping over it. Cable tie-outs, available at pet stores or from Amazon, can be secured between two trees and will keep Rover safe while you putter around.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

There are many ways to camp

Let’s say you’re into roughing it a bit —tent camping, say, but your significant other doesn’t like to sleep on the ground and your four-legged companion would likewise be more comfortable on a dog bed than in the dirt. Well, DogTrekkers, you have choices. Many, many choices.   In the past decade, dozens of “glamping” options have sprung up around the state. The term refers to rustic-chic accommodations ranging from safari-style tents or yurts to luxuriously outfitted Airstream trailers, usually in highly desirable locations. Not all are dog-friendly, but many are, so be sure to inquire.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Bark at the bots, but don’t give up

It’s usually difficult to snag a reservation at popular lakeside, state and national parks at this point in the year. Many can take repeated attempts to score. This year, however, even that strategy might not work. Why? Because technology has entered the picture.   Do a Google search for  “bots stealing campsites” and you’ll come across dozens of articles decrying how techno-geeks are using ingenious bits of computer code to automatically log in, reserve and complete a campsite purchase before a normal person can even get a page up on the screen.  Read more about resources and alternatives ...
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Roaring Camp railroads

Roaring Camp Railroads, courtesy of Visit Santa Cruz. Henry Cowell borders Roaring Camp Railroads where dogs are welcome on leash to explore the acres (including trails) of forested land. And for those pooches (or owners) who want to experience the grandeur of the redwoods and mountains but might need some help – hop aboard the train! Yes, your well-behaved pooch can hitch a ride on the steam train too. Please check current operating status of Roaring Camp Railroads before visiting.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

West Glenwood Open Space Preserve

West Glenwood Open Space Preserve, story courtesy of Visit Santa Cruz. With about four miles of trails, the West Glenwood Preserve is a great choice for hiking adventures with your pooch! Gorgeous vistas of the valley are around every corner and there are a variety of loops to choose from. In the spring, wildflower abound on the rolling hills. A few things to be aware of: the trails are currently one-way so please mind signs and have your mask ready when other hikers (or bikers) may want to pass. Also, there is a lot of sun exposure on these trails and it can be very hot on warm days so plan accordingly.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Pogonip open space

Pogonip Open Space, courtesy of Visit Santa Cruz. There are miles of dog-friendly trails and secret treasures to discover at Pogonip Open Space. Leashed pups are welcome on several of the trails, but for an easy stroll with a big payoff, follow the Rincon Trail from the UCSC campus as it slopes downhill to the eastbound Spring Box Trail. A quick stroll along the Spring Box Trail soon leads to an unexpected spring-fed koi pond tucked beneath a redwood tree. Please don’t allow pups any sort of dip into the pond – let’s be sure to protect this treasure for all locals and visitors. For more Pogonip trail info, be sure to take a look at this helpful map to guide your dog-friendly hiking adventures.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Dog-friendly hotels, camping & more

You’ll find dog-lovers and dog-friendly Yosemite lodging options throughout the region. To review them all, visit the lodging page on Yosemite.com, choose the general type of accommodation you prefer – hotels and motels, bed and breakfasts, cabin rentals or camping. Then use the Advanced Filter to show pet-friendly options inside and outside of the park. You can also use the feature to choose what area you would like to stay, from Yosemite Valley to Wawona and Fish Camp to Mariposa.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Dog-friendly road trip north: The compass points toward Redding

Heading north out of Sacramento on Interstate 5, the goal is to base camp in Redding, the Shasta Cascade's largest city. One of the top sights includes the iconic Sundial Bridge, spanning the Sacramento River. It bisects a paved, 16-mile, dog-friendly trail that eventually leads to Shasta Dam. Redding prides itself as “California’s Trail Capital,” with 225 miles of trails within a 15-mile radius of town. Search trails and download a map here.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

A Milo update: We need your help to survive

We are still up and running, rescuing and adopting!  Both our Sanctuary location and Milo Point Richmond are very busy (by appointment only) getting lots of animals fostered and adopted.  Volunteers are helping out a lot, and the Mendocino Sanctuary is enjoying a huge increase in adoptions and fostering (which usually ends up with an adoption through or to the foster). Those interested in adopting find they have the time now to get out of town and meet our Sanctuary animals.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Monterey Bay Labrador Retriever Rescue vets save Cali

From: Judy Kreger, Founder & CEO, Donate Here!   Monterey Bay Lab Rescue is continuing to take in Labs and Lab mixes that need rescue, virus or no virus. Our great fosters are always ready and willing to open their homes and their hearts to welcome in any Lab in need. And our vet continues to provide full vet care for all of our rescues including any surgeries they might require.     One of our recent rescues, sweet Cali (age 8), came to us when her owner passed away.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Marin Humane cancels Woofstock, needs support

From: Nancy McKenney, CEO/President, Donate Here!   Marin Humane has been hard at work for animals, and the people who love them, during this period. Our beloved foster families are taking good care of the shelter animals and adoptions are now resuming with modifications. We’ve moved many programs, like humane education and dog training classes, online where possible.   Marin Humane is still providing Animal Services to the county such as wildlife rescue and investigations of cruelty complaints
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

How you can help us reach new readers

We sincerely thank each of you for supporting DogTrekker. Whether you’ve read a newsletter, completed a reader survey, shared your travel stories, or answered a rescue/adoption request, we appreciate your involvement and feedback. We’ll keep providing quality content, refining our listings and supporting local rescue organizations. In return, we’re asking you for one simple favor. Please help us grow by sharing the DogTrekker newsletter! Want to help? Dig into the details here…
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Outdoor Gilroy: more than just garlic!

Gilroy, a small city near the coast in Santa Clara County, might be known as the garlic capital of the world, but it’s also filled with dog-friendly open spaces ideal for spring exploration. Mount Madonna County Park, encompassing 4,605 acres 10 miles west of Gilroy, rising to 1,900 feet in elevation and offering panoramic views of highly varied terrain. For a good workout, choose the Sprig Lake Trail, which has an elevation gain of 600 feet over 3 miles.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Paws and pillows

So… are you up for a splurge or on a smaller budget? Santa Cruz lodgings on both ends of the spectrum are rigorously adhering to sanitation and safety protocols so both you and your four-legged buddy can rest assured. If boutique is your thing, the dog-friendly Hotel Paradox, with 170  "boldly designed" rooms is a solid choice. It's a short walk to downtown Santa Cruz, parks and dog-friendly patio dining—and just minutes away by road to scenic West Cliff Drive and several dog-friendly beaches.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Find a dog-friendly place in Placer County

Placer County is large and diverse, stretching from just north of Sacramento County all the way to Tahoe’s north shore. In between are hundreds of square miles of national forest lands, including dog-friendly Auburn State Recreation Area, stretching 20 miles along two forks of the American River. Less well known but an excellent destination for hikers with dogs is Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park, which is under jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management, which is not restrictive about dogs on trails.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

At BADRAP, it’s ok to ask. it’s important to give

From: Donna Reynolds, Co-Founder, Executive Director. Donate Here! Some weeks ago, animal shelters like BADRAP were understandably concerned that Covid19 would spark a massive influx of surrendered pets. Thankfully that scenario hasn't played out in the Bay Area. Food insecurity and financial hardship, though, are the realities that have crept up and bring a new worry about surrendered pets. Unfortunately, many pet pantries and food banks are having a hard time meeting the need and most low cost spay/neuter clinics have shuttered. Talking with out of work pet owners over the past month has been sobering. People are scared.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Muttville set to rescue their 8,000th dog!

“I had no idea how we were going to do this,” says Sherri Franklin, founder and CEO of Muttville Senior Dog Rescue. “I just knew that we had to.”   Muttville finds homes for over 1,000 senior dogs a year, many in shelters across California slated for euthanasia. They have over 80 seniors available for adoption at any one time, many in foster homes. But there are always at least 30 dogs at HQ awaiting medical exams or recuperating after the traumatic changes in their lives.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Meet Faraday, a hospice story from Lily’s Legacy

Meet Faraday. Rescued by two good samaritans from years wandering alone in the vineyards of central California, this lost soul with the gentle heart was taken to a local vet for treatment. The news was very sad. Faraday suffered from Dilated Cardio Myopathy and A-Fib. He was given six months to live. Knowing they couldn't support Faradays needs, his saviors reached out to Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary in Petaluma CA.   Lily’s said yes and Faraday moved into a wonderful hospice home where he is being loved and cared for. Eight months later, he’s still enjoying life with his hospice mom, Toni and loving friend, Lena, and his canine buddy, Rusty.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Wild Blue Dog Camp

Still Booking for September 7-13, 2020   Does it break your heart to leave your best buddy behind when it comes to vacation planning? Then your vacation dream has come true! Wild Blue Dogs is hosting two amazing camps this summer in gorgeous Lake Tahoe. Wild Blue Dogs is a non-profit organization raising awareness and funding for canine cancer treatment.   Bailey at Wild Blue Dog Camp Wild Blue Dogs will be hosting two week-long dog camps (summer and fall) — held on the South Lake Tahoe waterfront, in a fenced, 33-acre campground. Wild Blue dog camps offer a full schedule of fun, training and camaraderie in activities ranging from agility and kayaking to nose work and dog photography. All activities and classes are taught by certified and professional trainers, and hikes are led by experienced trail guides. The choices are diverse, ranging from hiking to tricks, rally, recall, tracking, water sports, fun & easy training methods and more.   Dock Diving   Wild Blue Dogs is proud to announce the addition of several fantastic internationally known Trainers to our staff. Michael Shikashio will be joining us for Fall Camp, as will Moira Hechenleitner. Kelly Keebler, Lynda Piercy, & Terry Goodwin will be joining us in Summer Camp! We are so fortunate to have them! Camp sessions can be all-inclusive with meals and lodging or arrange your own offsite lodging and enjoy our meals and activities.   Coursing at Wild Blue Dog Camp   Register Early and Save! Several price points for Wild Blue camps are offered, depending on lodging choice. There is an early-bird discount of $150 for those who make their deposit for the fall camp by April 30. Refer a friend (or friends) and get a $100 discount for each one. There are limited reservations still available for both camps, but are filling up fast, especially the spring camp.   Arne and Bentley at Wild Blue Dog Camp   What is Wild Blue Dogs? Cancer is the number one killer of dogs. Six million dogs will be diagnosed this year alone and most will die within the year. Wild Blue’s need-based treatment program offers grants to people lacking the resources to pay for their pet’s cancer treatment. Fundraising activities include two, week-long dog camps plus other fun get-togethers throughout the year. Wild Blue Dogs supports research in comparative oncology, which is focused on the link between cancer in dogs and cancer in humans. By finding ways to treat dogs we are also finding the most promising advances in treatment, including new drug therapy, gene therapy, immune system therapies, bone marrow transplants and advanced surgical techniques.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Sniff your way to the garlic capital of the world

Gilroy is a pet-welcoming destination that makes a great getaway any time of year.  The "Garlic Capital of the World" features outstanding restaurants, wineries, craft breweries, outlet shopping, and plenty of outdoor adventures for you and your four-legged friends. Start by booking a pet-friendly hotel room at Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn, Motel 6 Gilroy or Quality Inn & Suites Gilroy so you can stay and play for more than just one day. Then make your first stop the California Welcome Center Gilroy (in Gilroy Premium Outlets) for helpful maps, valuable coupons, and insider tips to make the most of your stay. Taste your way along the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail, where many wineries like Kirigin Cellars, Satori Cellars, and Sarah's Vineyards welcome dogs (and may even have some special treats waiting for them!). Take a stroll through historic Downtown Gilroy and indulge in the town's signature spice at Garlic City Cafe. There are many other outstanding restaurants that also welcome dogs, from authentic Mexican food at Los Pericos and Victoria's Mexican Restaurant to Asian cuisine at Ginger Cafe and Saigon 2 Siam Bistro. Get out and enjoy the great outdoors on dog-friendly hiking trails at Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch Park, Mt. Madonna, and the Uvas Creek Levee. You can even meet up with other four-legged friends at the Heartland Dog Park, which has separate areas for large dogs and small dogs. Plan your great Gilroy getaway today at VisitGilroy.com!
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Go north, DogTrekkers, go north!

A month from now, the epic waterfalls of the Shasta-Cascade region in Northern California will be gushing in spectacular fashion. That said, the cascades on the McCloud River —Lower, Middle and Upper—are mind-blowing at any time of year. They’re connected by a 1.5-mile-long trail that deserves leisure exploration. To give yourself time to wander (and take a selfie or three!), hole up at one of dozens of cabin retreats in and around Shasta Lake, the state’s biggest reservoir, and let serendipity be your guide. One of our winter favs just outside Redding are the four dog-friendly Silverthorn Resort cabins.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Norsled

These days, a lot of huskies, malamutes and other big furry snow-loving dogs find themselves in shelters, often after finding new and imaginative ways to get in trouble. People fall hard for those cute fuzzy puppies--and are often unprepared for big, high-energy, playful, demanding escape artists. As the Bay Area's go-to rescue for Nordic breeds, NorSled (Northern California Sled Dog Rescue) often gets the call from a shelter desperate to find a haven for a dog who arrives with medical needs the shelter can't handle.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

North Valley Animal Disaster Group 2019

In the last few weeks, as fires have raged across California, and all too many of us have had to leave our homes on short notice -- or been unable to get home following an evacuation order that left our critters stranded and in harm's way -- we're very grateful to all the first responders and the many volunteers who went to heroic lengths to keep everyone safe. In particular, we appreciate the hard work, dedication, and planning in anticipation of the next disaster, as lessons of the past came into play.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

New training classes at the East Bay SPCA

The East Bay SPCA has completely revamped their training classes to accommodate the modern needs of the urban or suburban dog while using the most effective, cutting-edge, scientifically supported learning theory and teaching methods. "Skill Builders" is the entry level class designed to teach general good manners in the home and the foundation necessary for more advanced training. "Connection Boosters" provides that more advanced training and focuses on the skills and relationship enabling a dog to join their owner anywhere dogs are allowed, from outdoor restaurants to off-leash hikes or city walks.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Choosing a final good-bye away from the vet’s office

By Dr. Jeannine Berger, SF SPCA Veterinarian & Behavior Specialist After giving us a lifetime of unconditional love, devotion, and loyalty, dogs carry only one fault. And that one fault is that they just don’t live as long as we often hope. So, after receiving a lifetime of beauty and selflessness, how do we honor them in their darkest hour? In fact, one of the most compassionate actions we can take is knowing how and when to give them a kind, gentle death. And as bittersweet as the choice may be, planning ahead and being prepared for a pet’s euthanasia often helps make it a very compassionate decision.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Dogs chill while you dine at The Ravens

Stanford Inn is a standout in the dog-friendly world not simply because it was one of the first in California to roll out the red carpet for pets. It was also one of the first to adopt sustainable practices, helping to kick off the “green” revolution that resonates today. And it might just be the only vegan resort in the nation. If you’re an omnivore, don’t be put off, be adventurous! What you’ll sample at The Ravens, the inn’s acclaimed restaurant, will turn your head and your mind. It starts with a cooked-to-order, plant-based breakfast (included in the rates).
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Drifting about in the Delta

The San Joaquin-Sacramento River Delta is a boater’s paradise that in places feels like anther world. But you don’t need a boat to explore this rich agricultural region marked with old-time lift bridges, small towns and miles of levees that in the id-1800s transformed a once trackless wetland into 55 agricultural islands that still produce food for Northern California (pears and wine grapes are the main crops). Numerous winery tasting rooms have cropped up over the past decade on both sides of the river, all of them dog-friendly.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Vet Buzz: Healing, health and happiness for your dog

By Dr. Shannon Leggieri, Claremont Veterinary Hospital Advances in veterinary care continue to help us take care better of our four-legged kids. More research has lead to a wider menu of options for treating your dog's challenges, including trauma, pain, osteoarthritis, soft tissue injuries, anxiety and neurological inflammation.   An exciting new device that offers a safe, scientifically proven treatment option at home for your dog is now available. The Assisi Loop, by Assisi Animal Health, is an non-pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory device (NPAID) that can be an adjunct or an alternative to traditional treatments like NSAIDs, analgesics and opioids. 
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Luxury Gold Country farm visit

DogTrekker showcases many different types of lodging and family experiences, but none quite compares with the farm stay adventure at Dog & Pony Ranch in Amador County. Maya, DogTrekker.com’s Director of Barketing, loves hiking on the 60-acre ranch, swimming in the dog-friendly pond, getting nose-to-nose with the horses, llamas, mini-donkeys and chickens (extensive fencing keeps dogs safely separated) and spending the evenings with her parents in the luxury lodge style home.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Little bit of magic in El Dorado County

DogTrekkers in the know point their paws in fall toward the Apple Hill Growers region north of Highway 50 in El Dorado County near Placerville, where more than 50 member farms open their gates to the public for an applepalooza of festivities centered around the orb-shaped fruit. This year, there’s something new: the Apple Hill Hard Cider Trail, which makes its formal debut Sept. 15 with six producers showcasing their takes on the low-alcohol beverage that is taking America by storm.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Lake County dog-friendly restaurants

Summer is prime time for outdoor dining, and around Clear Lake you’ll find lots of decks and patios that welcome well-behaved pets. In Lower Lake, Danny’s Roadside Kitchen is a true “roadhouse”—no inside seating, just great barbecue with a cult following. On a healthier tack, Wholly Bowl in Lakeport has a dog-friendly patio and turns out good-for-you meals (think chicken teriyaki bowls and Thai peanut wraps) and some of the best vegan dishes in Lake County.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Dog-friendly brags in Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg, the largest dog-friendly community on the Mendo coast has much to recommend, including the Beachcomber group of properties offering variety and value close to the sea. The Beachcomber Motel itself is a luxury motel that offers panoramic views, fire pits and “pet suites” (rooms that open onto a deck with dog house and pet shower) with direct access to the property’s leash-free dog park.  

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Little River: A canine paradise on the Mendocino Coast

Drive north from Point Arena 31 winding miles and you come to a little town that packs a big dog-friendly punch. Book a room at the Heritage House Resort (you’ll recognize it from the 1978 movie “Same Time, Next Year”), and you won’t want to budge from the decks and verandas overlooking the sea. Another great choice is Little River Inn Resort & Spa, a family-owned, Victorian-era confection that has greeted guests for five generations.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

It’s splash time in Lake County!

Lake County is named for that big puddle of blue on the map, and there’s lots to wag tails about on its shores. But Clear Lake is hardly the only body of water in the vicinity. Blue Lakes (Upper and Lower), just five miles away, are a pair of clear, spring-fed bodies of water ideal for swimming and fishing. Only human-powered craft and electric motors are allowed (speed limit is 5 mph), but you can rent an electric “yacht” or pontoon boat from the Lodge at Blue Lakes and pile the kids and dogs on board for a great day of cruising about.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Get your float on in Sonoma Wine Country!

Nine miles. Four-plus hours of water time. Countless tail wags, big smiles. A float/paddle on a secluded section of the Russian River is a DogTrekker must-do for visitors to Sonoma County. With your water-loving dog on board in a custom-made SOAR inflatable canoe from Russian River Adventures, you’ll explore a secluded section of the waterway downstream from Healdsburg and linger at swimming holes and beaches, picnicking, playing fetch and wishing the adventure would never end. If DogTrekkers act fast, the usual $10 dog fee will be waved mid-week through the end of June (use code DOG10TREK19 when booking reservations).
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Living local in Santa Cruz County

Every time we visit, Santa Cruz County gets more and more dog-friendly. And this year there are several new opportunities to bark about. Tops among them: As of a couple of years ago, dogs have a place to hike with their people at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, where they previously were confined to campsites and picnic areas. The North Escape Road isn’t a trail, exactly, but it’ll do: The former fire evacuation road, surrounded by redwoods, provides for a 7-mile round-trip trek on a paved surface that parallels Opal Creek for much of the way.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Wine with your pup

If you don’t live in Santa Cruz County, you probably know this gorgeous stretch of the California coast for its beaches, its stellar university and the namesake town that proudly embraces its somewhat eccentric reputation. But Santa Cruz County is also known for its mountains, its redwood forests and its wines, particularly the pinot noir and chardonnay that thrive in the fog-kissed climate. Wineries and tasting rooms are sprinkled throughout the county, and dogs get a warm welcome at many of them.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Wine down with your dog by your side

Monterey wines rely on warm sun, cool fog and nurturing soils resulting in intense varietal flavor. Chardonnay, pinot blanc and riesling are notable varietals grown near the coast, while reds are more common in the warmer southern areas. You can sample them all while your dog waits patiently (we hope!) by your side at dozens of pet-friendly tasting rooms from Cannery Row to Carmel to the Santa Lucia Highlands. Best bet: Pick a region and check out our recommended itineraries.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Get wet at a Monterey County splash spot

For many visitors with dogs, the primary reason to visit the Monterey Peninsula is to share your dog’s joy in running free on Carmel City Beach, a powdery, mile-long strand that is perhaps the best known leash-free beach in the country. It’s a short drive from Cannery Row and walking distance from stylish Carmel-by-the-Sea with its wealth of dog-friendly lodging and places to eat. Come in early morning to meet the locals, at dusk to enjoy the sunset.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Soak up some coastal scenery in Monterey County

The most abiding joy to be had on the Monterey Peninsula is simply enjoying the rugged coastal scenery, and there’s no better way to soak it up than on the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. This paved, multi-use path stretches 18 miles from Castroville in the north to Pacific Grove in the south. To get started, we suggest strolling the segment between Cannery Row and Asilomar State Beach, which will take about an hour at a moderate walking pace.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Shasta Lake: Dog-friendly houseboating haven

Redding isn’t just California’s Trail Capital; nearby Shasta Lake is the state’s Houseboating Capital, as well. In the wake of a wet winter, Shasta will be filled to capacity this summer and houseboating business will be brisk, so if you’ve ever considered a houseboat vacation that includes your dog, now’s the time to make reservations. Several Shasta Lake marinas rent houseboats ranging in size and style from stripped-down models popular with fishermen to ginormous floating palaces like the 65-foot, triple-decker Titan, which features satellite-tracking TV, eight flat-screen monitors, a jetted tube slide and a hot tub big enough for a dozen (no one will tell if your dog hops in, too). Shasta’s 360 miles of jagged shoreline are indented with cover after cove where houseboaters can anchor out in solitude or bob in the company of others.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Off the beaten track in Shasta Cascade

The farther north, east or west you go from Redding, the sparser the population and the wilder the country. With seven national forests, three mountain ranges, a national park, a national monument, two national wilderness areas, 15 state parks and countless lakes, the eight-county Shasta Cascade region serves up freedom and adventure for you and your dog at every turn. Dog-friendly hotels and resorts dot a region that encompasses Plumas, Lassen, Modoc, Tehama, Siskyou, Trinity, Shasta and Butte counties. A few suggestions for getting acquainted:
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Paw-friendly ‘must see’ Redding attractions

Whatever your plans, you’ll want to start with a lingering visit to the Sundial Bridge, a pedestrian span over the Sacramento River designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Its 214-foot, angled iron pylon serves as a gnomon, making it the world’s largest sundial. The bridge is a thing of grace and beauty that’s been pulling cars off the highway since it opened in 2004. Dog-friendly trails hug the river on both sides, and parking is free and plentiful.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Where to stay with your dog in Sacramento

From the downtown core to the farthest reaches of suburbia, Sacramento abounds with dog-friendly places to stay. If downtown is your chosen destination, the new Kimpton Sawyer might be just your ticket. It’s smack in the heart of the developing DoCo (Downtown Commons) district surrounding Golden 1 Center, offering out-the-door access to numerous restaurants with dog-friendly patios (plus lots of buzz on event nights). As at all Kimpton hotels, dogs are welcome at no extra charge.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Benefits of being a dog parent

By Chris Pitts, RVT, of Broadway Animal Hospital. A dog in your life can mean a healthier and happier life for you. There is the obvious benefit of an increase in exercise because you will need to take you dog out for daily walks. But there is also the potential to be more social on those walks if you join a group of like-minded dog people. Walking with others will make you more likely to be consistent with your exercise. In addition, the camaraderie of walking your dog with others is good for your mental health.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Urban delights along the iron horse trail

The Tri-Valley is nothing if not progressive when it comes to providing DogTrekkers and other residents with outdoor opportunities, and the Iron Horse Regional Trail is a great example. This 32-mile, multi-use path, paved all the way, runs between Concord and the Pleasanton/Dublin BART station along the abandoned Southern Pacific Railway right-of-way. Shared by cyclists, equestrians and pedestrians (including those of the four-legged variety), it connects schools, business centers, parks, regional trails and public transportation.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Jessica’s haven

Back in 2008, serendipity struck when Laura Cottingham and Laura Hislop took over a dog kennel in San Rafael—and Hislop's daughter Jessica, who had some disabilities, didn't care that much for people, but loved animals, was in heaven. The dogs loved her right back, and Jessica's Haven & Rescue was born as a place for kids and adults with disabilities to spend quality time with dogs, most of whom need a bit of extra nurturing (like puppies or shy dogs) or medical attention before they find their families. It's good for the dogs, who get to soak up the love, and it's good for special-needs folks, who also get to soak up the love, and learn responsibility for themselves and others too.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Safe and unsafe human medications for dogs

By Dr. Angela Gaeto, DVM, of the Helen Woodward Animal Center community in San Diego County. With all kinds of medication available to humans over the counter, many pet owners are tempted to give pets the same medication to avoid a trip to the vet. However, not all human medications can be administered to pets with the same result. There are also different drug interactions in pets and people, so always ask your veterinarian before giving your pet a new medication.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Haven humane society saving lives in carr fire

As fires rage through Northern California, Haven Humane Society is on the front lines, providing refuge to the animals of families fleeing the region as well as those picked up by good Samaritans and first responders in the field since the disaster began. Currently, with evacuations ongoing, they're sheltering over 700 animals whose people have been forced to leave their homes, as well as strays brought in since July 23, when the fires started. Happily, some of them are starting to go home as their families return.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Dog-friendly Lake County adventures

Clear Lake, that big puddle of blue in the middle of Lake County, is a popular vacation destination for families, but it’s hardly the only body of water in the vicinity. Blue Lakes (Upper and Lower), just five miles away, are a pair of clear, spring-fed bodies of water ideal for swimming and fishing. Only human-powered craft or those with or electric motors are allowed (speed limit is 5 mph), but you can rent an electric “yacht” or pontoon boat from the Lodge at Blue Lakes and pile the family (dogs included) on board for a great day of cruising about.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Lake County dog-friendly waterfront getaways

If being on or near the water is a priority on your Lake County vacation, you’ll find options aplenty among the many family-owned and operated cabin resorts situated along the Clear Lake and Blue Lakes shores. Blue Fish Cove Resort on Clear Lake, for example, has pet-friendly cabins with lake views, full kitchens and private BBQ grills, along with amenities including a boat launch, fishing pier, beach, game room and grassy lawn perfect for a (leashed) romp.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

All wine, no whine at these Lake County wineries

While water activities are of course a big attraction in Lake County, more than 30 wineries, most with dog-friendly picnic areas and tasting rooms, welcome visitors in what is one of the fastest growing wine regions in the country. While the region is best known for its sauvignon blancs, petit sirahs and big reds are gaining well deserved cachet. The Lake County wine-growing region blanketing the eastern portion of the county is divided into seven AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), or appellations, each with its own sense of place.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Jameson Animal Rescue Ranch 2018

Meet Bart, a large, easygoing senior guy who may be a bit past his crazy running-around stage but is enjoying excellent health in his golden years. He's looking for people who share his taste for the more relaxed sort of leisure activities: lounging in the sun, watching TV, and going for the occasional quiet stroll. Other dogs? He likes 'em. If Bart sounds like the guy for you, get in touch with his friends at Jameson Animal Rescue Ranch to set up a meeting! Send an email to Deassa Binstock at deassa@jamesonrescueranch.org to get things going.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

A big bark for Sonoma’s bark park

Sonoma County is well endowed with public lands where you can spend quality time with your furry friend, but not so well known are the private preserves that welcome hikers and strollers accompanied by canine companions. Put organically farmed Bartholomew Park Winery at the top of your list. This little-known gem just a few blocks east of Sonoma Plaza sits at the center of a 400-acre memorial preserve—known locally as "Bart Park"—with a 3-mile loop trail wending through oak-covered hills and redwood groves and opening onto vistas of valley and vineyards.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Rocket Dog rescue 2018

San Francisco's Rocket Dog Rescue is celebrating its 17th birthday, mostly doing what it does best—saving dogs who really, really need it. Since they opened their Urban Sanctuary and Adoption Center in East Oakland, they've become a trusted resource in the surrounding community. Which is why, in the wee hours of the morning a few weeks ago, a homeless person in the neighborhood called Rocket Dog with a horrific discovery: two German shepherd puppies in a garbage heap, clinging to each other and, it soon proved, terribly mutilated. One's hind foot had been chopped off, but her sister was in far worse shape with a life-threatening injury, her jaw deliberately crushed. Dubbed Freya and Frigg, they were rushed off for emergency care, where an orthopedic surgeon successfully rebuilt Freya's jaw. Shockingly, while all this was happening, a husky puppy, soon called Chloe, was found with injuries similar to Frigg's, and also given reconstructive surgery.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Raw food diet: Good or bad?

By Dr. Shannon Leggieri, DVM, MS of Claremont Veterinary Hospital, Oakland. To cook or not to cook? That is the age old question. The argument over the potential benefit and safety of raw diets has been heavily debated for decades. Proponents describe raw diets as natural and similar to what a dog might eat in the wilderness. There are a variety of raw diets and many differences in how they are prepared, processed and preserved. On the manufactured market there are fresh, frozen and freeze dried raw food preparations in a variety of flavors and protein sources. Some owners even feed fresh protein sources such as whole chicken to their dogs. This is dangerous and heavily discouraged, as bone ingestion can lead to constipation, obstruction and even bowel rupture. If you are interested in feeding raw food to your dog, it is important to understand the potential health risks and nutritional facts.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Bay Area German Shepherd Rescue 2018

If you're seeking a calm, easygoing companion for your road trips who's also happy to just hang out with you around the house, look no further than 6-year-old Charlie, who's seeking a new home through the adoption program at Bay Area German Shepherd Rescue.  This guy has a mild demeanor, pays attention, and likes to please. When out and about, he just wants to get along with everybody, human and canine. When barked at by more excitable dogs, Charlie keeps his cool. Hey, he even gets along with cats!
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Be tempted by Tenaya

Just outside Yosemite National Park’s  south (Wawona) entrance, the 302-room, Four-Diamond Tenaya Lodge awaits DogTrekking families with some very tempting kibble. Sunset magazine named it Best Resort for Pets in 2015 and Best Resort for Families in 2016, and no wonder: A destination within a destination, it offers myriad on-site and area activities aside from the national park. In summer there are climbing walls, an archery range, movies by the pool, bike rentals, horseback riding, Western-themed barbecues and hikes in the surrounding Sierra National Forest. In winter, families enjoy cross-country skiing or sledding on snow-covered hills.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

River dogs rule at Little River Inn

Little River Inn, in the coastal Mendocino County town of Little River, offers a River Dog package, good June through October, that includes two nights in a pet-friendly, ocean-view room with fireplace; a three-hour outrigger canoe excursion on the Big River for you and your pet; a $120 dinner voucher good for room service or service in the dog-friendly parlor; and a goodie bag packed with treats and tip sheets on where to hike, bit and boat with your four-legged friend.

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

California labradors, retrievers and more rescue

Strolling on the beach. Chilling on the couch. Mai Tai is definitely up for both those things and can't wait to meet you to discuss it all. This 2-year-old boxer girl doesn't let her tripod status slow her down a bit, and her zest for life is matched by her good manners. Adults, kids, dogs, puppies, she loves them all. Restaurants? Coffee shops? Car rides? She's your perfect companion. Mai Tai may have had a hard time before she landed at San Diego-based California Labradors, Retrievers and More Rescue, but those days are definitely behind her and she's ready to blend effortlessly into life with her new family. Learn more about her here.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Off we go, into the wild blue yonder

If you like camping and wouldn’t think about taking off for the wild blue yonder without your four-legged companions, consider giving your team an entire, activity-packed week together in the company of other dog-lovers and their pets. Wild Blue Dog Camp at Lake Tahoe is just what it sounds like: summer camp for you and your dog(s). Held just one week a year (Sept. 3-9 in 2018) on a 33-acre, sandy-beach property between Edgewood Golf Course and Zephyr Cove on the Nevada side of the lake (the facility serves in summer as a 4H camp), Wild Blue offers a full agenda of training in everything from agility and lure-coursing to nose work and doga (yoga with your dog on the beach).
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Animal Rescue Foundation 2018

Meet Lisbeth Salander, Nordic heroine, who's just emerging from puppyhood and anxious to find her lifelong family. Preferably one who's interested in getting out and exploring — this girl comes from huskies and border collies, and needs something to do. She loves exploring outdoors, and also playing with her human and canine friends. At 58 pounds, she's just about the perfect size for a companion dog. Lisbeth still has a lot of puppy bounciness, and would benefit from a manners class with her new family so everyone knows what's right. Learn more about her here. Lisbeth is currently enjoying the hospitality of Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation, which hosts the Animals on Broadway festivities in Walnut Creek on May 19.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Swirl, sip and savor at Santa Cruz’s dog-friendly wineries

First-time visitors to Santa Cruz County usually have beaches in mind. But once they discover wines of the Santa Cruz Mountains appellation, one of the oldest in the state and known primarily for pinot noir and chardonnay, they’ll be herding their four-legged buddies into some of the dozens upon dozens of winery tasting rooms sprinkled throughout the county. DogTrekker.com has rounded many of them up in a wine-trail itinerary heading north to south on Highway 1.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Xylitol poisoning

By Gary Richter, MS, DVM, CVA, CVC, GDVWHM, Holistic Veterinary Care, Oakland, CA Xylitol is a commonly used artificial sweetener found in a wide range of products for people. Xylitol is present in sugar free gum, candy, low calorie foods, and even some medications. From a human perspective xylitol is desirable because it can satisfy our sweet tooth and for diabetics, it provides a means to sweeten foods without sugar. Unfortunately, the same xylitol that makes sugar free foods tasty can be a deadly treat for dogs.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Feeling fine in Felton

Just seven miles from downtown Santa Cruz, the town of Felton is headquarters for a scenic duck into the cool embrace of a redwood forest. If you’re traveling with children as well as the family pet, there’s no better way to do so than to hop on a dog-friendly train. Roaring Camp Railroads offers Redwood Forest Steam Train excursions in open-air cars on narrow-gauge tracks once used to haul giant redwood logs from the forest. It’s tons of fun on many levels—but hang onto your leash, as your four-legged companion is sure to be mega-excited.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Santa Cruz County’s offbeat bounty

So you’ve been there, done that in Santa Cruz County, and now it’s time for something new. If you’re of a contemplative turn of mind, Land of Medicine Buddha, a privately owned “center for healing and developing a good heart” in Soquel, is sure to enchant and delight. While its focus is on group and personal retreats, the active Buddhist community welcomes pet owners to enjoy its scenic hiking trails ($5 donation requested; no public access on Saturdays).
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Take a spring hike around Redding

Redding calls itself California’s Trail Capital, and for good reason: about 100 miles of dog-friendly trails, both paved and natural-surface, have been developed in and around the city through private and public partnerships. Spring is a particularly nice time to take in the views from the Upper Sacramento Ditch Trail, which traces the route of a historic waterworks that once supplied miners’ sluice boxes. Three bridges along the northern part of the path span gorges that gush with waterfalls in springtime and offer arresting views of Shasta Lake and Keswick Reservoir at any time of year. Never heard of Keswick Reservoir? This river-like body of water stretching nine miles downstream from Shasta Dam is the iconic lake’s frigid, turquoise-blue afterbay. The recently paved and very scenic Sacramento River Rail Trail follows a historic railroad alignment for almost 11 miles along its western shore, offering views aplenty, multiple points of entry and ample opportunity to branch off onto dirt paths leading into the rugged hills.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Family Dog Rescue 2018

San Francisco's Family Dog Rescue's guiding philosophy is "We believe that when you adopt a dog, a family is created" — and they exist to help create and sustain those families. From their new headquarters in the Bayview, Family Dog offers a safe haven to dogs in need — puppies, adults, mixed breeds, purebreds, and dogs with disabilities — whether they're stuck in shelters, wandering the streets, or rescued from abusive situations. Funded entirely by donors, Family Dog provides necessary medical care and supportive foster homes, allowing each dog to reveal his or her true personality — and the kind of family they're meant to be part of.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Five tips for helping your dog deal with grief

By Dr. Shannon Leggieri, DVM, MS of Claremont Veterinary Hospital, Oakland. There are many resources on how a person can cope with the loss of their beloved dog (articles, books, online blogs, support groups, and more). There are not as many resources focused on helping a surviving dog deal with the loss of a canine companion. Dogs experiencing this kind of grief can suffer in a variety of ways (insomnia, anorexia, anxiety, lethargy and/or depression). It is important to understand how to recognize and manage your dog’s grief to alleviate suffering and strengthen your human-canine bond. The following are five tips to help your surviving canine through his/her time of grief:
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Journey to Wawona (Madera County, south entrance)

If you’re coming from Southern California, the Highway 41 corridor from Fresno up to Yosemite’s (South) Entrance, past Fish Camp, is probably the way you’ll go. The road begins its serious climb in Oakhurst, where Queen’s Inn by the River boasts an adjacent winery and  beer garden serving up almost 100 wines and craft beers on Wednesday through Sunday afternoons. Also in Oakhurst are Vulture’s View Inn, a B&B popular with DogTrekkers, and the dreamy (and dog-friendly) Chateau Du Sureau, a five-star, castle-like estate hotel.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Arch in from the west (Mariposa County, west entrance)

Open the windows and let your pup take in the smells as you drive Highway 140 from Merced to Yosemite’s El Portal/Arch Rock entrance. This route offers plenty of dog-friendly fun along its windy way, passing through the towns of Mariposa, Midpines and El Portal. If you are coming south on Highway 49, be sure to check out Coulterville, a monument to another time. We recommend staying in one of these historic towns before heading into the park.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Time out for Tuolumne County (Yosemite north entrance)

The rugged country leading up to Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat (North) entrance boasts a pioneer history as rough-hewn as the landscape itself. Tuolumne County towns along the Highway 120/49 corridors—Oakdale, Columbia, Jamestown, Twain Hart, Groveland—still have a boomtown feel, and with it, a relaxed attitude toward dogs. Columbia, “the Gold Rush town that refused to die,” is engagingly preserved as a state historic park, its 1850s ambience captured in an array of historic buildings.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Cannabis for pets

By Gary Richter, MS, DVM, Holistic Veterinary Care, Oakland, CA As more and more people discover the benefits of medical cannabis for themselves, many pet owners are wondering if there are similar benefits for their furry family members. As it turns out, the use of cannabis in animals is nothing new. Cannabis has been used in veterinary medicine for nearly as long as humans have used it to treat common health issues. Thousands of years ago, the ancient Greeks used cannabis to treat horses for colic, inflammation, and even to heal battle wounds. More recently, veterinarians have re-discovered the benefits of cannabis to treat medical conditions in pets.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

The advantages of a plant based diet for your dog

From the editors: Many pet parents are interested in plant-based diets for their animals for ethical, environmental and health reasons, such as allergies. This week we turn to Jan Allegretti, for her take on plant-based diets. At the end of the article, we will provide some additional links to other opinions regarding this important topic. by Jan Allegretti, D.Vet.Hom., author of The Complete Holistic Dog Book: Home Health Care for Our Canine Companions Dakota is a Chow-Lab cross, a big, beautiful bear of a dog. She’s 14 years old now, and she’d been having trouble getting around. When routine lab tests showed signs of early-onset kidney disease, her guardian, Carlyn, was worried. She wondered if changing her friend’s diet would help. We talked about her options, and she decided to eliminate all animal products from Dakota’s meals and start feeding a variety of whole grains, sweet potatoes, squash, tofu, beans, fresh vegetables, fruits—an entirely plant-based diet.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Monterey Bay Labrador Retriever Rescue 2018

Maya, DogTrekker's Director of Barketing™, says: "It's been a busy year for me since last spring, what with all the new responsibilities I've taken on here at the office and settling in with Rox and Dave. Things are pretty sweet for me now—which is a big relief. Like many dogs of Carmel, I had a pretty great life back in the day. Then my owner died, and it all fell apart. It was a scary time I don't like to think about too much, but luckily for me, Monterey Bay Labrador Retriever Rescue took me in."
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

There’s always something dog-centric going on in Oakland

Jack London Square, named for the California author who spent his boyhood on the Oakland waterfront before taking off for the Klondike (his relocated cabin is a local landmark), is Oakland’s vibrant social and historical nucleus, home to dozens of shops, restaurants, retail outlets and inviting lawns where many an event is held. It’s only fitting that a public space named for the author of “Call of the Wild” is dog-friendly, too!
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

What bones are safe to give your dog

By Chris Pitts, RVT, of Broadway Animal Hospital I admit it, as a veterinary professional, I cringe when people ask me which bones to feed their dogs. I have seen too many cases of diarrhea from dogs chewing on bacteria-laden bones, vomiting from swallowing a chunk of bone, surgery from bones that will not pass through the intestines, and broken teeth from chewing.  I have also had to remove chunks of bone that become lodged in a dog's mouth, and seen bones cause serious choking problems. The bones that scare me the most are rib bones and marrow bones.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Napa Humane 2018

Our friends at Napa Humane have found themselves extra busy in recent months, as the fires of fall swept across the region last October, causing many critters to go astray in dangerous conditions or lose their homes, temporarily or permanently, as their humans fled the flames and gathered in evacuation centers. Working with other local animal welfare groups, Napa Humane stepped up during and after the fires, shuttling dogs to safety in their vans, providing veterinary assistance at shelters, and assisting fire victims and their animal companions with ongoing needs.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Greater Palm Springs: Gateway to the desert

If your vision of a wintertime vacation to the California desert includes purple mountains, exotic cacti, comfy resorts and dog-friendly things to do, you’ll hit the jackpot with Greater Palm Springs. The region hugging the Interstate 10 corridor cuts through five counties and encompasses not just the celeb-saturated city of Palm Springs, but the neighboring communities of Rancho Mirage, Cathedral City, Indian Wells, Palm Desert, Indio, La Quinta and Coachella. Greater Palm Springs is the gateway to California’s vast Desert Region and an ideal place to stage your getaway. Here’s how to get started.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

GGNRA dog-walking saga: The backstory

With Bay Area populations growing and Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) lands being ever more heavily used, the National Park Service (NPS) in 2001, under the guise that dogs were harming wildlife and the environment, first moved to severely reduce the areas where four-legged companions would be allowed, both on-leash and off. Existing rules defining dog-friendly trails and beaches had been established in 1979, allowing dogs on approximately 1 percent of the 80,000-acre patchwork of public lands spanning three counties. Various iterations of the proposed GGNRA Dog Management Plan were produced in ensuing years. The final draft would have banned dogs from 90 percent of existing off-leash space, half of on-leash trails and all access in the San Mateo County portions of the GGNRA.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Emergency services/lost & injured dogs

If your pup is injured or lost, Dogtrekker.com makes the search for a 24-hour veterinary clinic or the local animal care and control shelter where found dogs are first processed a lot quicker. Simply go to the main menu in the NEARBY mode then scroll down and click on “Emergency Services.” In a flash, you will have phone numbers, addresses and directions for all emergency listings within 75 miles.  
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

The Grateful Table

On Nov. 21, more than 500 people gathered in a Domaine Chandon vineyard near the border of Napa and Sonoma counties to enjoy an open-air feast at a very long table and raise funds for wildfire relief. Fire responders, chefs, winemakers, tourism officials and many others gave time, energy and money to help those impacted by the October blazes. Visit California and Outstanding in the Field—along with host Tyler Florence and destination partners Visit Napa Valley, Sonoma County Tourism and Visit Mendocino County—were beneficiaries of the event, called The Grateful Table.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Sip and stroll in Santa Barbara County

When the weather outside is frightful, the dog-friendly welcome in Santa Barbara County is still delightful. If it’s not a beach day, make it a wine day – and maybe an urban wine day, at that. Start, perhaps, in the Santa Ynez Valley enclave of Solvang, that one-of-a-kind village, founded as a Danish colony, that through architecture, bakeries, restaurants and merchants offers a taste of Denmark in California. Walking through the picture-perfect town is something of a Disneyesque experience, sure to put a smile on your face and a wag in your dog’s tail.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Where to Cruz with your pup

If you don’t live in Santa Cruz County, you probably know this gorgeous stretch of the California coast for its beaches, its stellar university and the namesake town that proudly embraces its somewhat eccentric reputation. But Santa Cruz County is also known for its mountains, its redwood forests and its wines, particularly the pinot noir and chardonnay that thrive in the fog-kissed climate. Wineries and tasting rooms are sprinkled throughout the county, and dogs get a warm welcome at many of them.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Take time to coast

Mendocino County is mostly rural, and its extensive patchwork of public lands encompasses everything from national forests and state parks to dog-friendly preserves administered by the Bureau of Land Management. If you and your well behaved, always-comes-when-called pup prefer to wander together without being tied by a leash, head to Stornetta Public Lands, a 1,665-acre coastal haven near Point Arena, where you’ll also want to check out one of the West Coast’s most iconic lighthouses.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Cushing’s disease

By Dr. Jennifer Tavares, VMD, and Chris Pitts, RVT, of Broadway Animal Hospital. Cushing's disease can mimic a lot of other conditions. With its main disease signs of increased water intake, increased urination, increased appetite, a decrease in skin quality, the onset of lethargy, obesity, and loss of muscle tone, it can look a lot like kidney disease or a low thyroid hormone level to your veterinarian. To many lay-people, it may seem to be just the normal signs of old age.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Rush on up to Redding

Lace up your hiking boots, load Lucy into the car and get a grip on your leash: you’ll need it when you see how excited she’ll become upon encountering a multitude of new sights and smells in dog-friendly Redding, your gateway to the eight-county Shasta Cascade region. On a clear day, the 13,162-foot, snow-covered cone of Mount Shasta fills the windshield during the 2.5-hour drive up Interstate 5 from Sacramento. It’s a looming landmark and constant reminder that you’re leaving the Central Valley behind and entering the rugged landscapes of the Cascade range.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Go boho on the Bohemian Highway

It’s just 10 miles long, but oh, what a sweet 10 miles. The Bohemian Highway, named for the artists and other alternative-lifestyle folks who settled the area after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake (and kept coming, especially in the 1960s), is a scenic and pastoral two-lane byway anchored by artist-filled communities, organic farms and wineries, one-of-a-kind shops, innovative restaurants and lots of scenic food for the soul. The charming Creekside Inn & Resort in Guerneville, at the north end of the drive, is on our Russian River A-list. If multiple rooms and a kitchen are among your requirements, check out the dozens of dog–friendly rentals available through Russian River Getaways.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Urban rambles in Sonoma County

The town of Sonoma, with its historic plaza surrounded by high-end restaurants and shops, is the gateway to Sonoma Wine Country. But wineries aren’t the only places in this sprawling county to visit with your best friend, and Sonoma isn’t the only town with a dog-friendly, come-hither vibe. Santa Rosa, Sebastopol, and Petaluma have their own sets of canine-accommodating charms, and you and your tail-wagger will be all the richer for putting them on your itinerary.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Redwoods, rivers, Rover and you

The redwood-hugged Russian River is the best-known stream rolling through Sonoma County, but it’s not the only one. Up north, the Gualala River, on the border with Mendocino County, enters the Pacific near the town of Gualala, which makes a peaceful, fresh-air base for a low-key getaway. Late fall through early spring is when gray whales and humpbacks migrate along the Sonoma coast, and what better place to observe them than the Whale Watch Inn, four miles north of Gualala on Anchor Bay?
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Make time for wine in Lake County

Lake County is dominated by – you got it – one of the largest bodies of water in the state. But Clear Lake, a popular vacation destination, is just one piece of a diverse county that is coming on strong as a fast-growing wine region with laid-back (and dog-friendly) appeal. The Lake County wine-growing region blanketing the eastern portion of the county is further divided into seven AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), or appellations, each with its own sense of place. While best known for its sauvignon blancs, petite sirahs and big reds like tempranillo and cabernet sauvignon are gaining well deserved cachet.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Sunny Tri-Valley wineries welcome dogs

The Tri-Valley region, an hour east of San Francisco, is nothing if not full of surprises, especially when it comes to wine. Production is centered in the rolling Livermore Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area), where the first grapes were planted in the 1840s. More than 50 wineries, two dozen of them proudly dog-friendly, have since sprung from the rich soil, and they’re all close enough for a day trip or overnight trip from the Bay Area or Sacramento. So leash up your pup, crack a window and take off into the so-close-but-so-far-away countryside.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Carneros, here we come

What part of the Napa and Sonoma valleys is closest to the Bay Area and Sacramento? The answer: Carneros, a wine-growing region and AVA (American Viticultural Area) that spans parts of Sonoma and Napa counties and backs up to San Pablo Bay. The marine influence makes Carneros (which means “sheep” in Spanish) a bit cooler than regions up-valley, with a microclimate ideal for cultivation of grapes used in sparkling wine production. Dog-friendly tasting rooms abound, and while we haven’t visited them all, we have some favorites.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Hop on over to Hopland

Winery rich Mendocino County home to 10 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), a half-dozen of which are smaller regions lumped together under the over-arching Mendocino County label. While there are many dog-friendly tasting rooms scattered about, it makes sense for newbies to follow one of two designated “wine roads,” one tracing Highway 128 through the famed Anderson Valley, the other centered around the Hopland area on Highway 101.

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Separation anxiety in dogs

By Chris Pitts, RVT, Broadway Animal Hospital, Eureka We all want our dog to be bonded to us, but when your dog cannot handle any time away from you, he may have separation anxiety. Your dog can manifest the stress of your absence by chewing furniture, baseboards or door frames, digging, urinating in the house, or even jumping out of windows to try to find you. There are other signs that can be less destructive, but equally intolerable to your neighbors, such as whining or incessant barking. Separation anxiety is a behavior to be dealt with as soon as possible.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Old-fashioned fun at Shasta Cascade cabin resorts

Back in the “olden days,” families taking a summer vacation often stayed at rustic cabin resorts situated in the mountains near scenic lakes and streams. Many of these old-style places (along with a few new ones) survive in the Shasta Cascade, and many are so popular they can only be booked in blocks of a week or more in summertime. Come September, however, reservations open up, minimum-stay requirements are reduced and opportunity beckons. Here are six dog-friendly places—some rustic, others high end—that might be just right for a fall getaway.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Make time for Mount Shasta

The Shasta Cascade region’s name comes from a monumental mountain (Mount Shasta, at 14,179 feet, one of the highest peaks in the country) and the Cascade mountain range that begins where the Sierra Nevada peters out, just north of Lake Almanor in Plumas County. The mountain, 75 miles north of Redding, is considered by many to be one of the world’s most spiritual “power spots,” but even if you’re not into New Age philosophy, you owe it to yourself to bask in its bewitching presence.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Big reds and good times in Amador County

Amador County, best known for its robust zinfandels and barberas, celebrates big reds with its annual Barbera Festival, an outdoor sip-and-stroll event set this year for Sept. 16 at Terra d’Oro/Montevina Winery in the foothill town of Plymouth. More than 80 wineries from all over the state will be pouring, while top restaurants will offer samples of their fare. Artists, musicians and vendors will of course be on hand, too. If you can guarantee your dog will be a good dog in a crowded situation, bring her along (but be sure to keep her leashed, provide water and—you know the drill—pick up after her immediately should the need arise).
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Historic Folsom: Gateway to the Gold Country

Visitors know Folsom for the song made famous by the Man in Black, but no one sings the blues once they get to this historic little city at the western gateway to California Gold Country. Folsom makes a great launching pad for forays into El Dorado County wine country and the Apple Hill region, where many dog-friendly adventures await. But it also has much to offer DogTrekkers in its own right—including a new, 2.5-mile trail and sculpture park named for Johnny Cash. The Johnny Cash Trail connects to an extensive network of paved paths shared by cyclists, joggers and dog-walkers, while just outside town, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, which includes the separate Lake Natoma, have their own sets of pathways along with miles of shoreline where Sparky can swim and fetch sticks to his heart’s content. And that’s not to mention the American River Bike Trail hugging the river of the same name for 32 miles, all the way to downtown Sacramento.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

What’s cookin’ in Calaveras County

Any time’s a good time to head up Highway 4 to the hip and happening town of Murphys, but if you can be there in October, so much the better. That’s when the annual Grape Stomp Competition and Gold Rush Street Fair fills downtown streets with vendor booths and lots of people with bewildered dogs on the other end of the leash. It’s probably the first time Duke and Daisy (and maybe you?) have witnessed a bunch of people stomping around in wine barrels, so go figure!
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Unexpected toxic substances in the kitchen

By Dr. Shannon Leggieri, DVM, MS of Claremont Veterinary Hospital, Oakland. While a well balanced kibble is the best maintenance diet for your furry friend, reality is an occasional table scrap may “sneak” into your dog’s daily or weekly routine. So if you are cooking alongside your four-legged companion it’s essential you know the “OKs” and “absolutely nots” of sharing your dinner together. Remember that dogs have completely different enzymes in their digestive system than we do. Certain types of foods and food products which are safe to humans are quite toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Chow down in a Valley town

There’s no shortage of places in Tri-Valley to chow down at an outdoor table with your pup at your side. Enjoy the small town hospitality and laid-back vibe whether your choice is award-winning California cuisine, local farm-to-fork comfort food, rustic bistro classics or pubs featuring craft brews. Speaking of craft brews, nine out of the 14 dog-friendly breweries, tap rooms and restaurants on the Tri-Valley Craft Beer Trail serve food. Many are conveniently situated just off Interstates 680 and 580, in or near the cities of Pleasanton, Dublin and Danville.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

What and where is Tri-Valley?

Three valleys and four cities make up the Tri-Valley region, which away from urban areas is characterized by rolling hills studded with gnarly oaks and sprawling vineyards. It’s less than an hour from San Francisco or Sacramento, straddling the line between Alameda and Contra Costa counties on the “sunny side” of the bay. Dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, wineries and craft breweries abound as you explore the three valleys—Livermore, Amador and San Ramon—from which the region takes its name.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Tri-Valley’s no-whine wineries

A laid-back atmosphere and dog-friendly vibe prevail at many Tri-Valley wineries where you can both make yourselves at home. Most establishments are located in the picturesque Livermore Valley, one of the country’s oldest winemaking regions. Wine-grape cultivation started here in the 1840s, and today, more than 50 wineries, 23 of them proudly dog-friendly, share an AVA whose terroir is characterized by warm days, cool nights and gravel-based soils. You can check out DogTrekker’s dog-friendly Tri-Valley wine trail before heading out.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Helen Woodward Animal Center 2017

Meet Jacket! This big, happy-go-lucky Lab-shepherd mix is still a puppy at heart—he's not quite 2. The world is pretty new and exciting for him, and he's still working on adult social graces, but he's a smart boy and loves to learn. If there's play involved, so much the better (check out his video). He'd be a lap dog if he could—he loves to snuggle with people and really wants one of his own. If you're the one who can help Jacket become the amazing dog he's meant to be, get in touch! Jacket's just one of many dogs currently getting the best of care at the Helen Woodward Animal Center, which has been coming to the rescue of animals in need in the San Diego area for over 40 years.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Monterey County parks

Dog-lovers from around the world know leash-free Carmel Beach as a primo place to visit with dogs. But that’s hardly the only place in Monterey County where your untethered dog can have as much fun and freedom as you do. A number of county parks, as well as several within the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District, allow dogs to accompany you off-leash away from developed areas so long as they stay within sight, respond immediately to voice commands and don’t get in the way of horses, cyclists or other hikers.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

If everybody had a surf dog…

You’re sure to have a Beach Boys sound track playing in your head as you and your pup cavort on aptly named Dog Beach, the leash-free segment of 3.5-mile-long Huntington Beach, centerpiece of the city of the same name (also known as Surf City USA). Surf culture rules in this SoCal mecca for more than 8 million annual visitors—and sometimes, especially during the annual Surf City Surf Dog competition (Sept. 24 this year), it seems like there are that many dogs, too!
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Calling all river dogs!

Natural beauty and colorful history converge at Mendocino’s Little River Inn, a classic Victorian establishment with 65 ocean-view rooms, a nine-hole golf course and day spa on 225 wooded acres overlooking the coast. This summer the inn is rolling out the red carpet for dog-lovers and their four-legged friends with an amenity-rich River Dog Package. It includes two nights in a pet-friendly, ocean view room with fireplace; a three-hour excursion on the Big River estuary in an ultra-stable, dog-friendly outrigger canoe; a $100 dinner voucher for use in the dog-friendly parlor, the pro shop or for room service; a goodie bag with pet treats; an info sheet on where to hike, bike and boat with dogs; and a one-hour massage for each adult human. Packages start at $685 (plus tax and gratuity) for two people and up to two pets. Advance reservations at least two days in advance are required; call 707.937.5942 or go to littleriverinn.com.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Down a lazy river with rover

Ever skipped an otherwise great outing because your dog couldn’t come along? We all have—and sometimes, it’s because we just didn’t know our options. Here’s one that should be on every DogTrekker’s bucket list: floating with your pup on the Russian River in an inflatable canoe specifically designed to accommodate canines. Russian River Adventures outfits this adventure for hundreds of DogTrekkers each summer using super-stable SOAR canoes that let all of you travel comfortably on an 8.5-mile stretch of the Russian River out of Healdsburg in Sonoma County.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Best beds for heads and paws

More than 50 pet-friendly lodgings—something for every style and budget—are sprinkled across the Santa Cruz County landscape. They run the gamut from camping cabins to luxury inns to vacation rentals where you can spread out like at home. If you’re up for a splurge, the AAA Four-Diamond Chaminade Resort & Spa, a woodsy, 156-room boutique retreat fresh from a $7.9 million makeover, pampers with luxury rooms and 3 miles of hiking trails on 300 mountaintop acres overlooking Monterey Bay.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Save on camping with America the Beautiful pass

There’s one thing very good about getting older: The day you turn 62, you qualify for an America the Beautiful Senior Pass, which costs just $10 for a lifetime and provides free access and half-price camping and other amenities for everyone in your vehicle at more than 2000 national recreation sites including national parks, national forests and grasslands, and at lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. (As a bonus, Nevada State Parks honor the pass, too).
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

The glamping route

“Glamping,” a hybrid word referring to rustic-chic, outdoor-oriented lodging that doesn’t involve pitching your own tent, is a concept that’s been exploding for more than a decade, with new properties opening every season in Northern California. A new player on the scene, Inn Town Campground, just outside the Gold Country town of Nevada City, does it right with a colony of safari-style tents outfitted with electricity, comfy beds, fresh linens, artsy accessories and outdoor seating.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Meet Maya, new Director of Barketing™

By Roxanne & Dave Kendrick, Co-founders of DogTrekker.com The story of Kayla, DogTrekker.com’s late and much missed Director of Barketing, was one of the best-read newsletter stories of 2016. Thanks to all our readers who read her story and sent their best wishes. It’s been more than six months since Kayla crossed the Rainbow Bridge, and time for us to find our next furr-ever dog. We are excited to introduce her to all of you. Kayla passes the leash off to Maya We raised Kayla from a puppy after getting her from a reputable breeder, some eight years before we launched DogTrekker.com. Even though we were aware of and often donated to rescue groups, we didn't know about the magnitude of the problems with over-breeding, lack of spaying and neutering, and the fact that millions of dogs were being euthanized every year in shelters. Then we met the wonderful founders and volunteers at hundreds of California shelters, rescue and adoption organizations. We witnessed their selfless work firsthand, and were enlightened.   Maya on her office lunch break Meet Maya, a 5-year old, 70-pound English Labrador retriever recently adopted from Monterey Bay Labrador Retriever Rescue. Maya hailed from dog-crazy Carmel and was surrendered after her owner passed away. As with any dog being rehomed, Maya came to us with some issues. She is a bit tough on the leash and very nervous when riding in the car—not the best situation for a company and family constantly on the road. On the flip side, she gets along great with dogs large and small, dog people and not, even in uniforms. She doesn’t bark excessively and doesn’t beg for food, which isn’t very “Lab-like” at all.   First night at home! When Judy Kreger, Founder and CEO of Monterey Bay Lab Rescue, sent us pictures of Maya, we were a bit hesitant—older but not that old? Large but not too large? Car anxiety? Leash issues? But something in her eyes—it’s always in the eyes—spoke to both of us. Everything else, we knew, could be handled with training. So we decided to take a trip to Maya’s foster home in Santa Cruz, and it was love at first sight. We left shortly after and brought Maya to her new home.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Madera County: South entrance (hwy 41)

The town Oakhurst in Madera County is the main gateway to Yosemite’s south (Wawona) entrance on the Highway 41 corridor winding through the Sierra Nevada foothills from Fresno. A great stop in Oakhurst is Queen’s Inn by the River, a dog-friendly establishment boasting an adjacent winery, the Idle Hour, and a beer garden where, Wednesdays through Sundays, almost 100 wines and craft beers are available for tasting. Also in Oakhurst are Vulture’s View Inn, a B&B popular with DogTrekkers; and the dreamy (and dog-friendly) Chateau Du Sureau, a castle-like destination inn boasting five stars from Forbes and five diamonds from the American Automobile Association. Just over the county line and only two miles from the park’s southern entrance is Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite, a luxury, dog-welcoming establishment in Fish Camp.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Arf 2017

Meet Brad Pitt. Like his namesake, this 2-year-old pit bull mix is strong, handsome, and fond of outdoor adventures. He's also very happy to sit there soaking up the TLC from his people when it's time to relax. Brad had a run of bad luck before landing at Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation in Walnut Creek. After landing in a city shelter, he was receiving heartworm treatment when the shelter caught fire, adding smoke inhalation to the poor guy's medical woes. But his stay at ARF has helped him put all that behind him, and he's now breathing easy, heartworm free, and ready to enjoy a bright future with his own family.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Bay area german shepherd rescue 2017

Meet the lovely Rex, the perfect companion for your DogTreks and family outings. He's a big, happy guy, who gets along great with people, dogs…and cats too! He's your guy for fetch, hikes, beach trips, and beyond. When it's time to chill at home, his house manners are excellent, and he sleeps all night in his crate. This three-year-old German shepherd dog is currently enjoying the hospitality of a foster home in Lake County, thanks to Bay Area German Shepherd Rescue, but he's looking for his own family.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Tick-borne disease

By Dr. Shannon Leggieri, DVM of Claremont Veterinary Hospital, Oakland. As rain and floods sweep across the state it seems appropriate to discuss tick-borne diseases. Ticks thrive in moist, humid, lush environments, particularly following periods of rainfall. In winter and spring especially, dogs are at greater risk of becoming exposed to ticks during walks, hikes or even in their own backyards. With certain ticks come certain diseases to which dogs (and people) are vulnerable.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Leptospirosis and your dog

By Dr. Shannon Leggieri, DVM of Claremont Veterinary Hospital, Oakland. As water levels rise across the Bay Area this winter, so has the number of documented canine leptospirosis cases. This has led to a flurry of articles, TV segments and worried owners calling veterinarians to ensure their dog has the “lepto vaccine." It is essential that, as a dog owner, you know the facts, risks and warning signs of leptospirosis to minimize the likelihood of your dog contracting the disease.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Waggin’ trails 2017

Landing in a shelter is rarely a good thing if you're a dog. If you're in an overcrowded California rural shelter with no resources and less foot traffic, your prospects are pretty bleak. Luckily, though, there's help on the way from Waggin' Trails Rescue, which works with many partner rescues to get these overlooked dogs safely into foster care and address any medical issues that exist. Then, thanks to dedicated volunteer transport driver Lee Kinsel, the dogs then head to rescue groups in out-of-state areas where the once-ignored pooches are in high demand.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Hb collection: Dog-passionate hotels

Where to stay? Is it really possible to find a beautiful place near the beach for you and your pooch? In Surf City USA, absolutely. For years, many hotels in Huntington Beach have been on the leading edge of dog-friendly accommodations. Though Marilyn and I have not opted for a staycation yet, I can’t say we're not tempted. And the good news is, in most cases, we’d be staying right next to the ocean on one of the most beautiful beaches in California. Recently, the city introduced “the HB Collection,” four premier oceanfront resorts in the heart of Huntington Beach that have joined forces with more than 1,400 guest rooms, all within a half-mile and walking distance to downtown shopping, local artisanal restaurants and the historic Pier. And guess what? They are all pet-friendly.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Winter splendor at Yosemite

Yosemite National Park is spectacular (and uncrowded) in winter, whether or not there’s snow on the valley floor. At Tenaya Lodge, two miles from the park’s south entrance, you and your pup will get the royal treatment with a pampered pet package that includes a night’s lodging in a dog-friendly lodge room or cottage (not available in winter), two hours of pet-sitting and an array of treats and amenities. Don’t look for details online; you’ll need to call (888) 514-2167 and book directly with the property. Another option for enjoying the park in winter with your four-legged companion is the Redwoods in Yosemite, a collection of vacation rental homes, many of them dog-friendly, located within park boundaries and convenient to all the iconic sights.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

All paws welcome on the Napa Valley Vine Trail

Looking for ways to combine hiking with wine tasting and a really tasty lunch? A new opportunity for DogTrekkers awaits along the newly inaugurated Napa Valley Vine Trail, a paved, multiuse path that eventually will stretch 47 miles from the Vallejo ferry terminal to Calistoga. For now, a 12.5-mile segment from Napa’s Kennedy Park to the tony enclave of Yountville is ready for feet, paws and bicycles, with only a short stretch requiring a detour onto city streets.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Dog-friendly lodging for you and yours

Mendocino County is big and diverse, but there’s something extra-soothing about making base camp within sight or sound of the sea. Settle into a king pet suite at the Beachcomber Motel & Spa in Fort Bragg, and both you and your four-legged loved one will enjoy direct access to the fenced, off-leash dog park right outside. Two suites have doggie doors opening onto gated outdoor kennels, and all pet suites come with a doghouse, pet beds and other woof-friendly amenities (not to mention fireplaces, microwaves, refrigerators and giant TVs for human occupants).

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

The dining with dog conundrum

While most Mendocino County restaurants with outdoor dining venues allow dogs to curl up under the table with their owners, winter weather can throw that option a curve ball. In inclement weather when patios aren’t open, your pup can always wait in the car while you dine. Or—if you know in advance—you can take an unconventional route to an indoor venue.

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Fall trekking in the SLO lane

San Luis Obispo County encompasses just about everything California is known for, from mountains to ocean to wine country to laid-back vibe. Luis Obispo County encompasses just about everything California is known for, from mountains to ocean to wine country to laid-back vibe. Sure, you can shoot down from the Bay Area on Interstate 5 and Highway 46, but it’s much more rewarding to take the slow lane (Highway 101) all the way to Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo and beyond.

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Whiskeytown calls

Haven’t figured out how to use those unused vacation days? We have just the perfect destination. Redding, the last major city on Interstate 5 as you near Mt. Shasta, is the undisputed Trail Capital of California with over 225 miles of trails within 15 miles of its city center. Redding is also the gateway to the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. Few areas managed by the National Park Service allow dogs out of campgrounds or off of paved roads, but this one is a welcome exception. Yes, you do have to leash-up on the 70 miles of trails, but it is worth it as dogs and humans can cool off paws and heels at any of the four waterfalls and go off-leash where the trails meet the lake as long as they respond well to voice commands.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Three must-see’s for you and your dog

Shasta Dam, the second-largest concrete dam in the United States (after Grand Coulee in Washington) is a wonder to behold, as is Shasta Lake, the largest reservoir in California. If it’s your first trip to Redding, put the pair of them high on your “must-see-and-do” list. The 602-foot-tall dam, begun during the Great Depression and completed during World War II, can be viewed from a vista point on Highway 151, the scenic road leading to the dam from Interstate 5 (exit No. 685).
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Muttville Senior Dog Rescue 2016

It's been an eventful year so far for the good folks at Muttville Senior Dog Rescue. In July, Muttville founder and executive director Sherri Franklin was named a CNN Hero (one of 25) for her work as an example of "everyday people making a difference." In this case, to thousands of senior dogs who once faced a grim future, and to the people who've come to see them as the loving companions they are. August was a record month for Muttville, with 97 senior dogs finding forever homes. And they just rescued senior dog #4,000. That would be Susie here, a 9-year-old Chihuahua mix whose outgoing personality and loving disposition win friends wherever she goes.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Glamp it up with your four-legged friend

Maybe you like the idea of camping but don’t own (or care to own) the requisite equipment. Enter “glamping,” a hybrid word referring to rustic-chic, outdoor-oriented lodging that doesn’t involve pitching your own tent. A new player on the scene, Inn Town Campground, just outside the Gold Country town of Nevada City, does it right with a colony of safari-style tents outfitted with electricity, comfy beds, fresh linens, artsy accessories and outdoor seating.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

East Bay SPCA

Meet Robin Hood! This foxy little guy, currently enjoying the hospitality of the East Bay SPCA while he awaits his new home, got his name for his free spirit and his resemblance to the Disney cartoon character. Now he wants to join your merry band. He's a young Chihuahua mix, but a bit bigger; like a small terrier. At 2, he's old enough to know his own mind; he's smart and independent, fond of making his own decisions. But he's also willing to listen to you and go along, especially if treats are involved. Robin prefers an adult family with no other dogs. If you're looking for an engaging companion for your adventures, he's your guy.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Home Society Silicon Valley

Meet the lovely Cheechoo, as fine a canine companion as ever was. When he landed at Humane Society Silicon Valley a few months back, this 8-year-old pit bull mix was suffering from an epic flea allergy; his skin may have been in sad shape, but his sunny disposition and eternal optimism never wavered. As he healed up, he occupied his mighty brain by learning an impressive repertoire of skills in HSSV's obedience program—including excellent leash manners. Cheechoo's a perfect gentleman who loves long walks and snuggling on the couch, especially if belly rubs are involved. He's loved by one and all at the shelter, but what he really needs is his own family, and some kind souls have even paid his adoption fees so money doesn't have to be an issue. Imagine coming home to those awesome ears. That smiling face. It could happen—get in touch!
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Take a walk on the wave side

DogTrekkers who live inland know they’re never far from Sweatshirt Land. So when the mercury climbs, those in the know leash up their pups and head for the coast, making base camp in unhurried towns like Benicia, Pacifica, Point Reyes Station (gateway to the national seashore) or Half Moon Bay, all of which are well appointed with hiking trails. Our most recent weekend away was to Half Moon Bay, where early-morning fog gave way to blue-sky days and the shooshing sea was a soothing backdrop for long walks along the gorgeous Coastside Trail.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Kayla’s life-saving contribution

Two years after the launch of DogTrekker.com, Kayla got very sick, or at least we thought she did. Still a healthy, nine-year-old Lab with boundless energy, she became quiet, lethargic and not really that interested in food. She followed Roxanne around the house, whining constantly. Tests were done to rule out many potential issues, including cancer. The results were negative but still troubling, since her symptoms were not getting better. Kayla and Roxanne go for a ride A few nights prior to heading off to UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital in Davis for yet another round of evaluations, we were in bed when, at around 4 a.m., Kayla jumped up, put her head near Roxanne’s left arm and began pawing her breast area. Roxanne, who’d had a mammogram just a few months before, decided to check the breast closest to Kayla. She found a small lump.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Kayla, Director of Barketing Emeritus

DogTrekker.com wouldn’t be here without Kayla, our “research Lab,” director of barketing and chief operating dog since the website was launched in 2011. But yes, our primary inspiration has left us and is now at the Rainbow Bridge with all the four-legged buddies who left before her. Kayla and Lola at Lake Lagunitas, Marin County Kayla is no longer in pain and can once again run like a Lab, swim like a Lab and, most importantly, eat like a Lab. The past few years have been a challenge for her and our family, yet she always had a smile on her face, a wag in her tail and showed undeniable excitement when asked if she wanted to take a ride or go on a trip.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Peninsula Home Society and SPCA

Coco is a happy, healthy girl in search of her forever home. In January, when she first landed at Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA, it was another story entirely. She had a severe skin infection that had caused a lot of hair loss, and she was shut down and fearful. But the PHS veterinary staff started treating her skin miseries, while volunteers and training staff worked on her confidence. Soon Coco was feeling a whole lot better, and now this two-year-old pit bull with the David Bowie eyes is showing her true self: happy, energetic, and playful.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Inland bounty in Monterey County

Anyone who’s visited Monterey County with a dog knows about that glorious off-leash beach in Carmel-by-the-Sea. But that's not the only place you can unclip Spot and Sassy and let them run free so long as they stay within sight and under voice control. Garland Ranch Regional Park in Carmel Valley has miles of trails to roam, a river and tributary creek with swimming holes to splash in, a stellar visitor center and even specially designed water fountains for dogs.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Marley’s mutts

Back in 2008, Zach Skow was diagnosed with end-stage liver disease, the result of lifelong alcohol abuse. And it was the prospect of rescuing dogs—specifically, dogs who were as scorned, despised and rejected as he was in that state—that made him decide to get healthy and live. He soon launched Tehachapi-based Marley's Mutts, to rescue and heal the dogs who didn't fare so well in the system: "The giant mastiffs, the mangled and mangy mutts, the aggressive and the scared." And, based on his own experience, helping the dogs heal and move on to a better life had a way of healing the human helpers as well. Currently healing up in a foster home is the lovely Malala here, a former street dog rescued from the meat trade in Thailand and now, at 6, learning to be an American dog. After spending her youth on the run, Malala is now ready for a life of leisure, and seeks a comfy couch and a loving human.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Sit, stay

Greater Palm Springs is all about staying in style—and why should your dog settle for anything less? Here, hotels take the term “dog-friendly” to the next level with amenities ranging from dog-sitting services to in-room massages and fresh treats baked by the pastry chef himself. Not only do local hotels welcome four-legged guests with open paws, but they also cater to them with carefully curated amenities. Check out the top five spots to stay with your dog in Greater Palm Springs.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Bring on the lawyers!

Last week Bay Area dog and recreation groups banded together to hire the prestigious law firm Morrison & Foerster to represent us and help us fight the National Park Service to save recreational dog walking in the GGNRA. We're filing suit against the National Park Service for refusing to comply with the Freedom of Information Act. Please help today by making a tax-deductible donation to our legal defense fund. Any amount you can contribute will help, as we anticipate our legal bills to start at $50,000 for this first phase. Thank you for your support!
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Share your local dog-friendly places

Did you know that you can share your on-the-go experiences with DogTrekker.com? Our Paw-Tested section has dozens of stories and photos of things to do in your area and beyond. Whether it’s a new dog park, dog-friendly restaurant, craft brewery, beach, hike or event, DogTrekkers are always on the lookout for new fun tips on where to go and what to do with their dogs. Inspire all of us with your dog-friendly experiences. You can also share on DogTrekker.com’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Second chance german shepherd rescue

Falco. Photo Credit: Second Chance German Shepherd Rescue Pulled in the nick of time from a high-kill shelter in Fresno, young Falco had barely arrived in his foster home when his rescuers realized that something was seriously wrong. The young German shepherd was much too thin, but when he tried to eat he screamed in pain. Luckily for Falco, he'd been taken in by Second Chance German Shepherd Rescue, who feared the worst but were determined to relieve his pain and give him a quality life if they could. As his vet soon discovered, he was suffering from a dislocated temporomandibular joint (joint of the jaw), which caused excruciating torment when he tried to eat—but was relatively easy to fix. After some chiropractic work, the pain was gone, his appetite returned, and so did his zest for life. Now in foster care, he's happy, healthy, and having fun while waiting for his perfect match.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

John muir’s legacy in Contra Costa County

Axel hiking Acalanes Ridge. Photo Credit: Karen Booth, JMLT staff Be grateful for the folks behind the John Muir Land Trust—and consider donating to the Saving Contra Costa campaign if you can. This 25-year-old organization devoted to outdoor recreation and preservation of open space manages 11 properties comprising more than 2,000 acres of classic East Bay hills, ranches, streams and shoreline saved from development and offering multi-use trails for hiking, cycling, horses and dogs. If Daisy stays close and has a reliable recall, she’s welcome to accompany you off-leash as you take in an intoxicating dose of fresh air. Some JMLT properties are diminutive (Acalanes Ridge above Lafayette, for example, comprises just 23 acres), while the Franklin Canyon-Fernandez Ranch complex in the Martinez-Hercules areas sprawls over 1,185 acres of permanently protected open space.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Santa Cruz: As much about wine as beaches

For many visitors, Santa Cruz County is as much about wine as it is about beaches. The Santa Cruz Mountains appellation, known for a cool climate that produces superior pinot noir, is one of the oldest in the state. More than 70 wineries and tasting rooms are sprinkled through the county’s hills and towns, and dogs are welcome at dozens of them. The foothills outside Soquel are a good place to center a visit. At Hunter Hill, high above town, you’ll sip wine at a redwood bar while enjoying views overlooking the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. With Poetic Cellars, on 33 redwood-studded acres, comes a romantic theme supplemented by ocean views. Near the coastal enclave of Aptos, Nicholson Vineyards is relaxed, dog-friendly and unusual in that the rustic tasting room is right in the middle of the vineyard. Alfaro Family Vineyards, in the Corralitos area, likewise has a super-relaxed vibe—plus it’s not far from Corralitos Market and Sausage Company, a regionally famous deli and great spot for lunch.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Sunny, convenient livermore valley

With 40-plus wineries tucked into a landscape of rolling hills and sun-dappled valleys, the Tri-Valley region's Livermore Valley Wine Country shares a landscape very similar to the more famous Napa Valley on the other side of the Coast Range. The region’s boutique labels are produced in small lots and not widely known, which makes it all the more fun to go exploring. The sunny Tri-Valley produces several notable cabernets, and plays a pivotal role in the history of California chardonnay.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Exploring napa’s ‘ghost wineries’

Photo credit: lizzie1326 (CC) Visit Napa Valley midweek or in fall/winter, and you’ll have an experience much different than on high-season weekends. And there’s no shortage of wineries that welcome four-legged visitors. With Halloween coming up, why not theme a day to the valley’s “ghost wineries,” a term given to a handful of resurrected facilities built between 1860 and 1900, before disease, Prohibition and the Great Depression decimated the valley’s early wine-grape industry? Delightfully secluded at the end of a long, winding drive off the Silverado Trail, Regusci charms with a wine cellar made of buttery stone and dating to 1878. The dog-friendly tasting room next door is elegantly modern. You and Fido are welcome to belly up to the bar or picnic on the shaded grounds.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Golden gate labrador retriever rescue

Recently, the good folks at Golden Gate Labrador Retriever Rescue noticed that a growing number of the dogs who needed them came with health issues that were treatable, but often pricey. They also were encountering many elderly Labs who suddenly found themselves homeless and facing a bleak future due to their people's life changes. GGLRR responded by launching a Special Needs/Senior Fund, dedicated to getting these deserving critters into safe, loving homes where they can be happy, healthy and part of the family again. Currently looking for a place to spend his golden years is the lovely Harley, who is s 11 years old, in excellent health, and ready for fun.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Coastal cool-off in Monterey County

If it's coastal hiking that you are interested in, start in Monterey, where you can join the throngs of people and pups out for a stroll on the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, a paved, multi-use path that stretches 18 scenic miles from Castroville in the north to Pacific Grove in the south, hugging a route once used by the Southern Pacific Railway. The Pacific Grove section is a particular DogTrekker favorite. It hugs a stretch of coastline marked by dramatic rock formations, crashing waves, cawing gulls, braying sea lions and passing whales. Clamber down to Asilomar Beach for a close look at wetsuit-clad surfers and life-filled tidepools (but do keep Sparky on a leash).
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Meandering Mariposa County with your dog

Highway 140 through Mariposa County leads to Yosemite National Park, but there’s so much for you and Fido to see and do along the way that you might want to start your trip a day early. Start in Mariposa, the historic county seat, with breakfast at Jantz Bakery or lunch at the delightful Deli Garden Café. For an afternoon diversion, visit Butterfly Creek Winery, which welcomes dogs in its tasting room and picnic area; or try some of the big reds for which the region is known at the dog-friendly Casto Fine Wine & Art tasting room downtown.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Tri-valley chow-down

Pleasanton, a community of 75,000, is the wealthiest middle-size city in the country according to the 2010 national census, and it’s as pleasant as its name suggests when it comes to the Fido factor. Unlike other communities that block off streets and ban canines at farmers’ markets and street fairs, Pleasanton welcomes patrons with four-legged companions at its 1st Wednesday Street Parties, held May through September and featuring more than 150 vendors each week. Come celebrate the Dog Days of Summer at the dedicated-to-dogs 1st Wednesday Street Party on August 5th and watch all the dogs in the neighborhood shake their stuff in the popular pooch parade down Main Street.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Senior dogs with a lot of living to do

They may be getting up in years, but senior dogs still want to have fun. Getting out and about with their beloved folks is a big part of keeping them happy and healthy. Just ask Shelley, who will celebrate her 16th birthday on May 1. She's one of the resident dogs at the Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary, and takes her responsibilities as office supervisor quite seriously. From the time she arrived at age 14, Shelley’s hind legs were a bit wobbly, but it didn’t slow her down. Then, a few months ago, her hind-end weakness reached a point where she couldn't stand up. Shelley became depressed. Luckily, a kind benefactor got her a set of custom wheels, which quickly restored her zest for life and access to the outside world.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Muttville’s 10 tips for traveling with senior dogs

When it comes to traveling with senior dogs, the good folks at Muttville Senior Dog Rescue have accumulated a lot of practical wisdom over the years. So we asked them to share it with us. Here are their tips for making your next DogTrek fun for all. What to Pack License, rabies tag and meds. Comforts of home: heir favorite bed/blanket so they feel cozy and secure in the car and at your destination. The cushier the better for those older joints. Extra food, so you don't have to switch to something your dog's tummy isn't used to if you have to extend your trip. Also bring plenty of the water he's used to from home to avoid stomach upset. A carrier, even if you don't turn out to need it much. If your dogs get restless in the car, for example, they'll be much safer in their carrier, and you won't be a distracted driver. An old towel or cleanup wipes; bring an extra sheet to cover the bedspread at your destination. If your dog has incontinence issues, pack extra pee pads. Especially recommended: reusable/washable hospital underpads.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Dog-friendly beaches of san luis obispo

Let's go to the beach! CC E.Haug Dog-friendly beaches abound in SLO County, including several strands where you can cut the cord and let your best friend run free. You can always visit a dog-friendly beach on your own, of course, but for occasions worthy of a splurge, call the Beach Butlerz. This innovative service staffed by local college students promises to change a typical day at a dog-friendly beach into a remarkable experience for you and yours. Options range from simple delivery of beach chairs and firewood to a package dubbed the “Moroccan Love Encounter” entailing setup of a “luxe canopy” tent furnished with hard-surface flooring, lighting, a queen-size futon, 10 plush pillows, decorated table, feather fan, tiki torches and bonfire. Now what could be more memorable than that?
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Orvis contest supports canine cancer research

We all know dogs aren’t just pets, they’re family. So when canine cancer claims a victim, the whole family suffers. One in four dogs will battle this disease in their lifetime, with half of them dying long before their time. In response, The Orvis Company announced that Orvis customers have raised over a million dollars for canine cancer research through the Orvis Cover Dog Photo Contest. All funds raised have benefited Morris Animal Foundation’s efforts to prevent, treat and cure the disease.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Mendocino’s inland empire

Many Mendocino County visitors stay glued to the scenic stretch of coastline between Little River and Fort Bragg, but to do so is to miss out on redwoods, wineries, off-the-beaten-path seaside preserves and small, inland towns that extend a warm welcome to travelers with pets.

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

San Francisco is for dog lovers

Addie headed for fun at Fort Funston. Photo by Heather. If there’s a more dog-friendly big city than San Francisco, we at DogTrekker.com certainly don’t know about it. An abundance of open space available to the canine set is one of the City by the Bay’s main attractions for dog lovers. Well behaved pooches are allowed to exercise and socialize off-leash in two dozen places within city limits, including several—Bernal Heights, Crissy Field, Fort Funston—with views to drool over.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

On the way to Yosemite: East entrance

Cody, Tioga Pass. Photo: Patti Thompson Why hurry to Yosemite National Park when the journey can be as rewarding as the destination? The extremely dog-friendly Yosemite Region encompasses four gateway counties, each with its own unique set of attractions. DogTrekker is celebrating Yosemite’s 150th anniversary with a look at places and diversions for DogTrekkers to check out along the major highway corridors leading to the iconic park. Trek with us along Highway 120 through the East (Tioga Road) Entrance in Mono County.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Mid-peninsula’s marvelous preserves

Santa Clara County is blessed with tens of thousands of acres of paw-friendly parklands, and this being the Silicon Valley, many online resources are available to help guide you to and through K-9 territory. Check out the 25 county parks that allow dogs with some restrictions, then pick your path within the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD), whose 90,000 acres in 10 open-space preserves hold many options, both on and off-leash, for those of us visiting with our furry friends.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

East bay getaways with your dog

Cassie at Mission Creek Preserve. Photo: Sean Ness (CC) What would the East Bay be without its regional parks—all 65 of them? The East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) marks its 80th birthday this year, and as athank-you to its many users EBRPD is offering, “Free 3rd Fridays” each month for the remainder of the year. Perks include free parking, free boat launching, free entry for dogs and horses, waived swimming fees and free fishing permits. At other times, regular fees apply—but they’re hardly prohibitive.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Riverside romps

If you and your pup prefer paved trails to dirt ones, seek out the Truckee River Legacy Trail next time you head up to Lake Tahoe.Truckee River. Photo: Karen (CC) If you and your pup prefer paved trails to dirt ones, seek out the Truckee River Legacy Trail next time you head up to Lake Tahoe. Your furry companion will enjoy meet-and-greets with lots of other canines out for morning walks with their people, and you’ll enjoy watching the river roll by. The paved trail hugs the river for 2.5 miles northeast of Truckee River Regional Park, just outside the downtown district. Eventually, it will extend from Donner Memorial State Park to the community of Glenshire.

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Views galore in Santa Clara County

Mount Madonna County Park, Santa Clara County Bring your tent or RV and make a weekend of it, or just come for the day. Any way you slice it, Mount Madonna County Park, 10 miles west of Gilroy in Santa Clara County, contains all the elements, from ocean views to redwood forests, that epitomize Northern California. Spring wildflower season is perhaps the best time to visit this 3,688-acre preserve in the Santa Cruz Mountains, but in winter you'll have the place virtually to yourself. 
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Mendocino’s inland charms

Drive north on Highway 1 from Fort Bragg, and you’ll soon leave the coast and turn inland. It’s about an hour to Leggett, where the road merges with Highway 101 and the Redwood Coast begins. Leggett is home to one of the North State's most enduring roadside attractions, the Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree, a centuries-old coast redwood that was transformed into a tourist stop in the 1930's, when a 6-foot-wide tunnel was bored through it. Visitors ever since have been driving their cars into the opening and snapping photos with kids and dogs waving hands and paws out the windows.

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Cruising with Cosmo in Santa Cruz County

On the pier at Seacliff State Beach With 29 miles of beaches studding its extensive coastline,  Santa Cruz County has plenty of room for DogTrekkers. Not all strands are dog-friendly, and all but one of those that are require four-legged visitors to be leashed. But don’t let that turn you off or away: the scenery is stunning and the county is so dog-friendly in other ways that you and your tail-wagger won’t have trouble finding ways to enjoy a fall getaway. Santa Cruz city officials, who two years ago lifted a ban on dogs downtown, are now dithering about dog policies at area beaches. Meanwhile, visitors who long to get some sand underfoot can stick to the tried and true.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Amazing Mendocino county

If there’s one destination in Northern California that really rolls out the red carpet for your pooch, it's Mendocino County. Pet-friendly properties such as Stanford Inn by the Sea, Little River Inn, and the Beachcomber Motel properties welcome you and your pup with open arms, treats and amenities, while dozens of restaurants have patio tables set aside for diners with four-legged companions. In addition to great places to stay, many wineries welcome canine companions with water, treats and a place to curl up by the bar.

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Dog-friendly hide-aways in Mendocino

If seclusion is your thing, you’ll find plenty of it in big, diverse Mendocino County. DogTrekkers who love being shooshed to sleep by the waves should check out the possibilities at Serenisea, a blufftop cluster of cottages and vacation-home rentals, many of them dog-friendly, three miles north of Gualala on the county’s south coast. Also near the water is Howard Creek Ranch Inn, a historic, 60-acre, family-owned, waterfront homestead bordered by redwood-clad mountains. Cabins are furnished in antiques, full breakfast is included in the rates and many wineries are nearby.

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Reserving a spot for you and Spot

So, a friend told you about a great place to camp with your dog. But how do you make reservations? Here are three places to start: • Reserve America handles reservations for 572 federal, state, private and regional park district campgrounds in California (a dog icon designates those that are dog-friendly). • Recreation.gov is an umbrella site for reservable activities on federal lands, including camping in national forests. • California Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds lets you search by region and amenity and has a dog icon next to the listings. Many have Reserve Now links.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Treasure in El Dorado County

El Dorado county contains many recognizable-at-a-glance sites, most notable among them Lake Tahoe. But the Highway 50 and historic Highway 49 corridors through this scenic slice of California hold many other cultural and recreational attractions. In summer, Sacramento-area residents in search of a quick change of scenery head an hour up Highway 50 to Sly Park Recreation Area in Pollock Pines. This heavily wooded retreat surrounding turquoise-blue Jenkinson Lake is a magnet for boaters, equestrians, kayakers, paddle-boarders, campers, hikers and others calmed and cooled by the sight and feel of blue water and whispering pines on a hot day.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Sequoia humane society

Tux is one of many cute dogs who have found a safe place to land at the Sequoia Humane Society in Eureka while waiting for their forever home. A privately funded organization, Sequoia Humane addresses multiple aspects of its no-kill philosophy in a holistic fashion—so not only are Tux and his pals safe and sound while they wait, they also get plenty of walks and TLC from dedicated volunteers. Besides adoptions, Sequoia Humane offers spay/neuter assistance for low-income households, microchipping and DNA testing to the community, as well as humane education and other outreach.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Good doggone fun

Let's say your IPO just came in—or maybe you uncovered a cache of extra cash to spend on yourself and your four-legged partner. If you hike or hunt, we know you're already craving the Garmin Astro, a tracking receiver and transmitter set that uses GPS technology to map your dog's movements. And if you're into photography, it's hard to resist the possibilities presented by a GoPro Hero 3 camera. The product is used primarily as a headcam, but lately it's making waves as a tool for seeing the world from a dog's point of view. Put it on your head one day and your dog's the next to gain some stunning insight into human-canine relations.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Fall walk with Fido

If you’re not already packed up and headed for the hills, get moving! The first week of October is prime time for fall foliage in the upper elevations of Gold Country, and right now extensive stands of quaking aspen in Hope Valley, Donner Lake and elsewhere in the Lake Tahoe basin are dressed in their autumn best. The Highway 88/Carson Pass corridor, with its string of silvery lakes tucked into a rugged mountain landscape, is a favorite haunt of hikers and photographers, many of whom hang their hats at Sorensen's Resort, where dogs are welcome in the cozy cabins at no extra charge.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Sniffing out scenery in Sierra County

Even during the summer high season, Sierra County, home to fewer than 4,000 souls, is off the beaten track for most Northern California travelers. In fall, it can feel like your own private realm. Pack a suitcase, pop Max and Moxie into the car and embark on a 170-mile loop trip along the Yuba-Donner Scenic Byway to explore this rugged, less-visited part of Gold Country. The first part of the route springs north from Interstate 80 to follow Highway 49  through Grass Valley and Nevada City. From there it charts a winding, 44-mile course to Downieville, one of the hands-down most charming, history-steeped  towns in the Mother Lode. The rushing North Yuba River is scenic centerpiece for pet-friendly lodging at places including Sierra Streamside Cabins, the Lure Resort, Riverside Inn and Downieville Loft.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Ruffing it in Redding

Kayla on Sundial Bridge Hang onto your leash: You'll need it to steady yourself when you get your first close-up look at Redding’s iconic Sundial Bridge. The stunning pedestrian structure designed by celebrity architect Santiago Calatrava links dog-friendly trails on both sides of the Sacramento River and is a major visitor attraction in this part of the state. Start off with a stroll over the glass-decked span and let Rover splash at the water access points on the far side.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Downtown dogs in Santa Cruz

As we reported last year, the City of Santa Cruz had a longstanding ban on dogs, even the leashed, licensed and well-behaved, from its downtown area, causing painful surprise to many visitors. We're pleased to report that in response not only to the local dog community but merchants who complained that they were tired of losing tourist business to more dog-friendly towns like Carmel, the city government lifted the ban on a trial basis last summer and, when all went well, made the new policy permanent.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Sleep green

Northern California leads the nation in the number of hotels—more than a dozen to date certified by the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. The road to certification is long and rigorous, involving strict standards for energy efficiency, waste reduction, recycling and such. Choosing a LEED-certified property for your next DogTrekking expedition shows you care: It’s like giving Mother Earth a pat on the head and a scratch behind the ears.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Kayla takes on blithedale summit

One of Kayla's favorite things to do is explore the many, many hikes within the Marin County Open Space District (MCOSD). It is one of the few truly dog-friendly places she is able to run free on the fire protection roads. The MCOSD hike that seems to get both Kayla (a.k.a. kk) and her uprights excited is the Blithedale Summit, accessible from two different trailheads minutes from downtown Mill Valley. This trip, kk entered the Blithedale Summit East trailhead for a comfortable hike up towards the great sleeping lady of Marin, Mount Tam.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Pet insurance: where do you draw the line?

For DogTrekking friends of ours, a weekend hike ended up costing much more than the tank of gas it took to get to the trailhead. Unbeknownst to them, Smooch, their shaggy shepherd mix, was penetrated by a grass awn (also known as foxtail) that entered her ear canal. Antibiotics couldn’t kick the abscess that resulted, and surgery was required. The overall price tag: $6,000. No matter how much we love our pets and consider them family members, few of us have unlimited financial resources to call upon when it comes to medical care for our four-legged friends. Where do most pet owners draw the line? 
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Contra costa humane society

Founded in 1991, Contra Costa Humane Society (CCHS) works to improve and save the lives of animals in the county through a variety of successful programs, from low-cost spay-neuter assistance (SNAP) to the AniMeals program (a partnership with local food banks and Pet Food Express) to help people having hard times keep their pets, instead of having to give them up, by providing pet food to 450 needy families. CCHS also strives to educate people to foster compassion, responsibility and respect toward animals, with the goal of improving animals' quality of life and reducing euthanasia rates. Thanks to a grant from Maddie's Fund, CCHS, which doesn't operate a dog shelter (though it does operate the Kitty Corner adoption center in collaboration with Contra Costa Animal Services), has been able to launch a number of successful adoption initiatives, from its foster program, which pulls dogs from local shelters and gives them a safe haven till their adopters come along, to a re-homing service through which the humane society acts as a matchmaker between people who must give up their dog, and prospective adopters.
A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Beyond the crowds in Mendocino county

Mendocino County is “so close and yet so far away” when it comes to scenery, attitude and ambiance. Whether you play it sophisticated or sniff out the rustic, you’ll have no trouble carving out an itinerary to fit your budget and style.

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

Bones animal rescue

BONES (Better Options for NEglected Strays) in Covelo was started by a dedicated group of volunteers in rural Mendocino County who realized that between the area's economic issues and its isolation from animal services, critters in need were often in dire straits. They set about rescuing local pets and farm animals, and were soon so successful that they were able to start taking in some from other areas as well, not to mention launching a highly effective spay/neuter program.  

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