San Francisco county’s GGNRA bounty

Experience the joy of watching your canine companion frolic on the sandy shores of Crissy Field, while the majestic Golden Gate Bridge paints a stunning backdrop. The golden-hued structure standing tall against a clear blue sky promises a picturesque playdate for any dog lover and their faithful friend. Engage in an exciting game of fetch, let them chase the waves lapping at their paws, or simply relax as they dig into the cool sand under sunny skies near this iconic San Francisco gem. A perfect outing spot for those wanting to make unforgettable memories with their pets! - Dogtrekker

In San Francisco, GGNRA lands wrap the shoreline almost all the way from Fort Mason in the north to Fort Funston in the south, with a few breaks along the way. Dogs and their people can enjoy miles-long leashed walks with ocean views and, at a few places, unclip their canine companions to chase the surf and run free. Read more.

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. Read more.

The season of giving

DogTrekker operates on the principles set forth in its 4-Paw Promise: “To deliver local and accurate listings, provide engaging and actionable content and focus on social commitment to the communities we serve.” The “social commitment” part of that promise encompasses more than 300 rescues, shelters and adoption centers listed on our website. We provide visibility, awareness campaigns, adoptathon coverage and fundraising opportunities to many of these. Here’s a short list of organizations that would deeply appreciate your holiday remembrance.

San francisco SPCA 2017

Dog on blue photographer's background for the San Francisco SPCA

Looking for a sweet, loving young dog? Meet Matt Cain. This one-year-old German shepherd mix boy loves to meet new people, eat delicious treats and get tons of affection. He is blind, but that doesn't stop him from enjoying everything life has to offer. He will need daily mental and physical exercise to keep his mind and body in tip-top shape so if you think Matt's the one for you, stop by the SF SPCA's Mission campus to meet him! Read more.