Paw Press Blog

Welcome to Paw Press, DogTrekker.com’s update on what’s happening in the dog world. We cover doggie events that we attend; provide updates on where we’ve been; inform you of new, dog-passionate lodging packages; and keep current with dog advocates’ on-going battles to maintain and grow access to dog-friendly areas.

Combat your dog’s boredom blues

A bored dog stuck indoors can become stressed and destructive. Keep your pup engaged with hide-a-treat puzzles, burrowing toys and scavenger hunts around the house. Practicing commands or teaching new tricks also provides great mental stimulation for both of you.

Meet Faraday, a hospice story from Lily’s Legacy

Faraday, a gentle soul rescued after years wandering California vineyards, was diagnosed with heart disease and given six months to live. Taken in by Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary, he has thrived in hospice care and gained an international following.

Vet Buzz: Fireworks anxiety

Fireworks can terrify dogs whose sensitive hearing makes the explosions overwhelming. Talk to your vet about calming medication, keep your dog indoors during displays, and make sure ID tags and microchip info are current in case of a panicked escape.

What’s shakin’ in wintertime Redding?

Winter is a great time to visit Redding with your dog in uncrowded conditions. Snap photos on the Sundial Bridge, hike the Sacramento River Trail, then chase waterfalls at Hedge Creek Falls and McCloud River Falls.

Water Dog Sea Cave & River Dog packages

Little River Inn rolls out the red carpet for dogs with kayaking packages on the Mendocino Coast. The Water Dog Sea Cave package includes a two-night ocean-view stay, dog-friendly dining, and a guided kayak tour through sea caves.

Spring into Yosemite

Spring is the perfect time to visit Yosemite with your dog. Waterfalls rush, wildflowers bloom, and leashed dogs are welcome on most paved roads and paths in the valley. Mariposa County along the way adds dog-friendly lodging, dining and hikes.

Best dog-friendly hikes in Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County is packed with dog-friendly hikes. Walk through redwoods along the Pipeline Trail at Henry Cowell, find a hidden koi pond at Pogonip Open Space, or hop aboard the Roaring Camp steam train with your well-behaved pup.

Dog-friendly California destination, photo courtesy of ARF

Animals on Broadway

The Animal Rescue Foundation's Animals on Broadway fundraiser at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek features a pet walk, live music, food trucks, vendor booths, and pet adoptions. Proceeds support ARF's lifesaving programs for homeless Bay Area animals.

Bark in the Park

Bark in the Park in San Jose is the largest dog festival in the United States, drawing over 15,000 dog lovers. Enjoy costume contests, agility demos, vendors and more at William Street Park while supporting local pet organizations.

Four-paw fun with a view at Little River Inn

Little River Inn has welcomed dogs to the Mendocino coast for over 80 years. This locally owned gem offers ocean-view cottages, garden patio dining, welcome treats for pups and easy access to state beaches.

Your dog deserves a vacation too!

The Little River Inn on the Mendocino coast offers two adventure packages for dog lovers. The Water Dog package includes ocean kayaking, while the River Dog package features an outrigger canoe trip with your pup.

Pawsport Yountville: Dog-friendly wine tasting weekend

Pawsport Yountville is a dog-friendly wine tasting weekend in Napa Valley benefiting Napa Humane. Visit six pup-welcoming tasting rooms and restaurants in charming Yountville, with exclusive tastings, goodie bags, and dog treats included in each ticket.

Rattlesnake advisory summer 2023

As temperatures rise across California, rattlesnakes become more active on hiking trails. The East Bay Regional Park District shares essential safety tips for protecting yourself and your pup, including what to do if a snake bite occurs.

Napa Humane Walk for Animals 2023

Napa Humane's 12th Annual Walk for Animals is a fun fundraising stroll through Yountville that goes miles for local companion animals. Register, walk, enjoy raffles and contests, and use code DOGTREKKER for $5 off your registration.

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

Was Calistoga really founded by a dog?

Calistoga's founding story features Sam Brannan and his loyal Newfoundland, Leonitus, who helped shape the town into a thriving resort community. Today, pet-friendly inns, wine tasting rooms and restaurants carry on that dog-welcoming tradition in Napa Valley.