Paws to the (nice, flat) path

Back in the day, Bosco used to love to join you in long-distance runs and near-vertical scrambles up challenging trails. Now, not so much — but he still needs regular exercise to stay healthy, and hey, so do you. So there's a lot to be said for a nice, flat, paved path, with plenty of scenery and sniffing opportunities to enjoy as the spirit (or the scent) moves you. Read more.

Towns of slo county

Ready for a trip to town. (CC) E. Haug San Luis Obispo, home to California Polytechnic State University, is a quintessential college town nestled in a sea of hills just 10 miles from the Pacific coast. It has just about everything going for it so far as DogTrekkers are concerned, from dog-friendly hotels and restaurants to dog parks and historic sites including a Spanish mission dating to 1772 and an 1850s adobe home whose alluring gardens are open to canine visitors with people on the other end of the leash. Even SLOMA, the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art, is happy to host leashed dogs and their owners during regular business hours. Read more.

What should i feed my dog?

Charlie and Gretchen sharing supper. CC Indiana Stan By Gary Richter, DVM, Holistic Veterinary Care and Rehabilitation Center, Oakland As an integrative veterinarian, a frequent question I encounter is, “What is the best food to feed my dog?” My answer depends on many factors such as age, breed, current state of health, and lifestyle. That said, one generalization can be made: The closer we get our pets to eating a fresh, whole food diet, the better their health tends to be. There are multiple formats of foods out there to offer our pets. Nutritionally speaking, some are better than others. Remember, some dogs will do better on certain food than others. Read more.

Is your dog overweight?

I'd go to the gym if I could get up. Paulo Heleno (CC) By Bill Barboni, DVM and Chris Pitts, RVT, Marin Pet Hospital, San Rafael, CA Canine obesity presents many of the same health concerns as it does to people. When not kept in check, obesity can trigger respiratory illness, joint issues and diabetes. There are many ways to keep your four-legged friend's waist trim, and most of them are good for people too. Read more.

Is your dog hurting silently?

Diego resting after hurting his shoulder. (CC) Pedro Szekely Dr. Erin Troy, Muller Veterinary Hospital in Walnut Creek How do you know when someone you love hurts? Normally, you can ask them, but we don’t speak the same language as some of our most beloved family members. Most of our dogs don't tell us in an easily understandable way when they are sore or uncomfortable. As responsible pet parents, we need to watch for the early, subtle signs of pain and discomfort. Read more.