Season of Giving: Support animal welfare organizations in California

As the season of giving unfolds, the DogTrekker team turns our hearts and pocketbooks towards those rescue/adoption organizations that make lives more joyful and meaningful – especially the lives of our loyal canine companions. Throughout California, numerous animal welfare groups tirelessly work to ensure that every dog experiences the love and care they deserve. Read more.

Discover Calistoga in Napa Valley: a very dog-friendly wine country city

A golden retriever sits on a sidewalk flanked by trees on a quaint street in Calistoga, Napa Valley. The storefront nearby is decorated with vibrant flowers. In the background, there are small shops, hanging signs, and fall-colored leaves on the trees. It’s an ideal spot for dog lovers looking to explore with their pets.

Napa Valley offers more than just great wine—it’s a top spot for dog lovers. Calistoga, in particular, is very dog-friendly. Here’s how you and your pup can enjoy this charming town. Exploring Calistoga Start with a walk down Lincoln Avenue, Calistoga’s main street. Many shops here welcome dogs, so you can browse without leaving your … Continued Read more.

Pawsport 2024: Sip some wine, support Napa Humane

A group of people and a dog enjoying wine on a patio in Napa. - Dogtrekker

Pawsports are now on sale. Photo by Napa Humane.

One of DogTrekker’s favorite wine country events has always been Napa Humane’s Pawsport, a dog-friendly wine tasting weekend benefitting its Read more.

Was Calistoga really founded by a dog?

An old photo of a large dog walking down a street.

San Francisco’s Emperor Norton had his dogs Bummer and Lazarus. Calistoga’s Sam Brannan had Leonitus. Archive photo.

The charming Sam Brannan and Leonitus story In the early days of Calistoga, California, a man named Sam Brannan and his loyal Newfoundland dog, Leonitus, embarked on a journey to shape a thriving resort town. Brannan, with Leonitus’ watchful gaze and quiet camaraderie, transformed the wild land into a flourishing community. Their bond was not just a … Continued Read more.