Is your dog itchin’ and scratchin’?

By Melissa Robinett, DVM, Bel Marin Animal Hospital, Novato, CA It’s late spring and allergy season is in full swing. As all humans with allergies know, we still don’t have a cure for this condition. The same is true for our allergy-prone canine companions, so management of this chronic, often frustrating disease is the goal. Read more.

Of leash laws, bears and campground petiquette

California leash laws set out rules for people leaving home with their pets, and individual RV parks and campgrounds may impose additional layers of regulations. A page at Camp-California.com spells out the leash-law basics. Meanwhile, we at DogTrekker.com offer some advice to help keep tails wagging at the campsite and beyond. Read more.

Arf 2017

Sitting black dog with person kneeling to pet

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. Read more.

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. Read more.

Common questions about senior dogs

By Dr. Angela Gaeto, DVM, of the Helen Woodward Animal Center community in San Diego County. Here are some answers to common questions about senior dogs. Read more.