Life with dogs Blog
You, your dog and Yosemite: Pet-friendly Tenaya Lodge
If you enjoy adventuring with your dog and have always wanted to experience Yosemite National Park, then Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is for you.
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Four-paw pet-friendly Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
Anybody who has ever traveled with their canine companion knows that some accommodations are more dog-friendly than others. At Tenaya Lodge, you can fetch a trip you’ll both enjoy. If you like adventuring with your dog and have always…
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Enter the DogTrekker California photo contest and capture stunning shots of your dog
DogTrekker's California Photo Contest invites you to photograph your dog at the state's most scenic spots. From Big Sur cliffs and Yosemite trails to San Francisco landmarks, here are top locations for stunning pup portraits. Are you a proud dog…
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Yosemite Mariposa County
Spend four pet-perfect days in Yosemite Mariposa County exploring historic towns, hiking dog-friendly paved trails in the valley, and venturing to quieter spots like Wawona Meadow and Hetch Hetchy. This detailed itinerary covers lodging, dining, and scenic drives for every…
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Yosemite Mariposa County four day dog-friendly itinerary
This four-day itinerary covers the best of Yosemite Mariposa County with your dog, from historic small towns and pet-friendly restaurants to Bridalveil Fall hikes, Wawona Meadow trails and scenic drives through the park.
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4-day dog-friendly autumn itinerary
This four-day autumn itinerary covers Yosemite Mariposa County's best dog-friendly adventures, from historic foothill towns to scenic trails inside and beyond the park. Visit in fall for lower prices, fewer crowds, and golden light on the valley's iconic granite walls.
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Dog-friendly hikes on the San Francisco Peninsula
From coastal bluffs in Pacifica to redwood forests in Woodside, the San Francisco Peninsula is loaded with dog-friendly hiking. These trails offer ocean panoramas, shaded woodland paths and wide-open grasslands perfect for energetic pups on leash.
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Five things to know about Yosemite with your dog
Even seasoned visitors may not know how welcoming Yosemite and Mariposa County can be for dogs. From pet-friendly paved trails and Sierra National Forest hikes to lodging with special pet packages, here are five things every dog traveler should know.
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Plan a summer reset in the Shasta Cascade region
Northern California's Shasta Cascade region spans eight counties packed with national and state parks, trails, lakes and pet-friendly towns. From Mount Shasta's peaks to Burney Falls, spring brings wildflowers and ideal conditions for exploring with your dog.
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Cinco de Mayo with your dog: California’s best patios
Cinco de Mayo is one of California’s great outdoor holidays. The first week of May delivers reliably warm weather from San Diego to Sacramento, patio season hits full stride, and the margaritas flow. And if you have a dog? You’re…
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Chow down with your dog: Fort Bragg restaurants
Fort Bragg serves up dog-friendly outdoor dining all over town. Silver's at the Wharf has a heated pet-friendly patio overlooking Noyo Harbor, and nearby options range from seafood at Sea Pal Cove to craft beer at North Coast Brewing Company.
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Our favorite dog-friendly hotels and resorts in California
From rooftop dog runs in San Francisco to waterfront cottages on Tomales Bay, these ten California hotels truly welcome four-legged guests. Expect welcome kits, dedicated dog menus, private dog parks and staff who treat your pup like a VIP.
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Wild Blue Dogs summer camp early-bird ends March 15
Wild Blue Dogs Camp at Lake Tahoe runs weeklong sessions packed with dog training, agility, kayaking, and beach time. The nonprofit raises funds for canine cancer treatment, making every visit count for a good cause.
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How to pick the right rescue dog for you
Choosing the right rescue dog means honestly evaluating your lifestyle first. Consider your activity level, living space and time commitment, then match those with a dog's energy, temperament and size for a successful adoption.
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Redding: perfect pit stop for you and your dog
Redding is the perfect base for exploring Northern California with your dog. Walk the iconic Sundial Bridge, hike and swim at Whiskeytown Lake, and enjoy craft beer on dog-friendly patios around this welcoming mountain town.
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A day in the life of a domesticated dog
A humorous first-person account from the world's first domesticated dog, who is pretty sure he's the one training his human. From morning wake-up routines to guarding the cave, this pup runs the show.
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Keeping tails wagging with Napa Humane
Napa Humane supports pets and their families through spay/neuter clinics, dog training classes, behavior hotlines and safety-net programs. Their summer calendar features community mixers, Dine & Donate nights and a pet photo calendar contest.
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8 dog-friendly lakes near Southern California
When Southern California heats up, head to these eight dog-friendly lakes within three hours of the city. From Castaic Lake's golden foothills to Big Bear's alpine waters, each spot offers shoreline access and cool relief for overheated pups.
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Deadly hitchhikers: tick-borne diseases that could cripple your dog
Ticks carry serious diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease that can strike your dog fast. Learn the warning signs, prevention strategies and why regular tick checks after hikes could save your pet's life.
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How to start right with a rescue dog adoption
The early days of a rescue adoption shape everything that follows. From dog-proofing your home to understanding the 3-3-3 adjustment rule, here's how to set up a new rescue dog for a smooth, confident transition into your family.
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Foxtails and California dogs: what to know before summer
Foxtails peak from May through October across California — and their one-way barb makes them a veterinary emergency when embedded. Here's where to check your dog, what symptoms to watch for, and when to call the vet.
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The great collar conundrum: choosing the right dog collar
Choosing the right collar for your dog matters more than you might think. From standard flat collars and limited-slip martingales for escape-prone pups to head halters and harnesses, here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each style.
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The hidden costs of ‘pet-friendly’ hotels in California
That "pet-friendly" hotel label can hide steep fees, musty designated rooms, strict weight limits and absurd breed restrictions. Before booking, learn to spot the red flags and find California lodgings that genuinely welcome your dog.
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7 essential puppy training tips for new dog owners
The first year with a new puppy sets the stage for lifelong habits. These seven training tips cover early socialization, positive reinforcement, consistency and patience to help your pup grow into a confident, well-mannered travel companion.
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