Rescues and adoption Blog
Since we entered the ring in 2011, the DogTrekker founders have dedicated revenue, editorial and promotional support to California shelters, rescue organizations and animal welfare groups. It’s all part of our Leave No Dog Behind mission, which puts pets first—whether we’re helping our readers to plan unforgettable DogCations or building a better world for our furry friends and rescue partners.
What every dog lover should learn from the Miranda’s case
A Humboldt County rescue that took 1,200-plus dogs from California shelters is under criminal investigation. Here's what the case reveals about the system — and how to vet a rescue yourself in 20 minutes.
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Your guide to Puptopia Big Bear 2026
Clear the calendar and get the car road trip ready—the mountains are howling! Big Bear Puptopia Festival is coming up on Saturday, July 25. The charming dog-centric celebration makes the perfect anchor to a fun-filled weekend along the shores of…
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Splash, stay and play in Big Bear
There’s so much to enjoy in Big Bear before and after the festival. Pair your Puptopia weekend with a property that’s got its own pool, then take the party to the lake—paddling, swimming and dockside naps included. Here’s how to…
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Plan your pup’s Puptopia festival ‘fit
Puptopia is a day of sheer canine cuteness in waterside Veterans Park. It’s all about fun, games and pampering, with a giant ball pit, agility tunnels, spa treatments, vendor shopping and live stage shows. Whether your pup is a social…
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Choose your Big Bear basecamp
Veterans Park is an easy stroll from Big Bear Lake’s Village, so you can bed down anywhere from a lakefront boutique hotel to cozy, fireplace-warmed cabins. Book ASAP; festival weekend fills fast. Here are a few dog-friendly favorites within reach…
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Bark n’ Brewfest
The Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA's annual Bark n' Brewfest returns to Washington Park in Burlingame on June 27, offering guests the chance to sample beers from more than 20 local brewers while meeting adoptable animals looking for forever homes…
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Puptopia Festival
Calling all dog lovers and pet parents! You're invited to come out to the Big Bear Puptopia Festival on July 25 for a tail-wagging day of fun in Veterans Park. Enjoy the Pawground, relax in the K9 Lounge, watch stunt…
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New for you: DogTrekker’s ulti-mutt spring event guide
Spring brings a packed calendar of dog-friendly events across California, from fun runs and beach festivals to wine tastings and costume parades. Many raise funds for animal welfare organizations, so you and your pup can play while making a positive…
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This spring, have fun while benefitting furry friends
Team DogTrekker spotlights two spring fundraisers that support California animal welfare. Napa Humane's Pawsport unlocks wine, dining and hotel deals from 30-plus businesses, while Pasadena Humane's Wiggle Waggle Walk and Run raises funds for Southern California wildfire relief.
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Splashy fun and trails to explore
Sacramento's tree-lined trails, fenced dog parks, and riverfront pathways make it a standout for outdoor fun with your pup. Explore the 32-mile American River Parkway or play at one of nearly a dozen off-leash parks.
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San Francisco: The ultimate dog-friendly destination
San Francisco is basically Disneyland for dogs. With a rich canine history, off-leash beaches, dog-friendly bars, and famous four-legged residents past and present, the city by the bay has earned its reputation as the ultimate dog town.
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Top destination stories of 2023
DogTrekker's most popular 2023 destination stories span the Golden State, from Sacramento's walkable dog scene to Placer County's mountain trails and beyond. These paw-tested reader favorites are packed with ideas to inspire your next California road trip.
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Enjoying the California desert with your dog
A desert trip with your dog takes extra planning. Bring plenty of water, watch for cacti and extreme heat, take frequent shade breaks, and check that trails and campsites are pet-friendly before you go.
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DogTrekker’s official spring/summer event guide is live!
DogTrekker's spring and summer 2025 event guide highlights pup-friendly fundraisers across California. From Pasadena Humane's Wiggle Waggle Walk to the Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash and Woofstock Chico, your participation supports rescue efforts that change animal lives.
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Mendocino County wineries warmly welcome dogs
Mendocino County's Anderson Valley is one of the most dog-friendly wine regions in California. Nearly a dozen Highway 128 wineries welcome pups with treats, water bowls, fenced play areas and resident winery dogs.
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Marley’s Mutts: Tehachapi dog rescue with a prison program
Marley's Mutts in Tehachapi rescues the dogs others pass over, from giant mastiffs to mangled mutts. Their prison training program pairs inmates with shelter dogs, teaching both new skills while preparing the animals for loving forever homes.
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PyrPaw Rescue: saving Great Pyrenees on the West Coast
PyrPaw Rescue and the West Coast Great Pyrenees Foundation work to keep these big, fluffy working dogs in loving homes. From emergency rescues to training support for struggling owners, they're building a safety net for Great Pyrenees across the region.
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What to do if your dog runs off traveling
A lost dog while traveling is every pet owner's nightmare. Preparation is key: carry a collar with your cell number, microchip your dog, bring a full-body photo and know how to quickly contact local shelters and animal control.
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What to do if you’re allergic to your dog
Finding out you're allergic to your dog is tough, but it doesn't always mean giving them up. From managing symptoms with medication to adjusting your living situation, there are practical options worth exploring before rehoming.
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BADRAP: it’s OK to ask and important to give
BADRAP has set up a matching system connecting helpers with pet families facing financial hardship. Whether donating pet food, groceries or directing people to low-cost vet services, a small act of support can help keep families and their pets together.
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Fireworks and Fido: 4th of July impact on dogs
Fireworks cause more pets to go missing around the Fourth of July than any other time of year, with shelters reporting a 30 to 60 percent surge in lost animals. Here are tips to keep your dog safe.
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Essential guide to adopting a rescue dog in California
Adopting a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding things you can do, but preparation matters. This guide walks you through assessing your readiness, researching breeds, and visiting shelters to find your perfect match.
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Rattlesnake season: heightened risks for California hikers and dogs
As warm weather returns, rattlesnakes emerge across California's trails and grasslands. Learn how to identify these snakes, protect your curious dog from bites, and what to do if a close encounter happens.
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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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