Is the thought of flying with your pet making you nervous? Here are 9 tips from pet owners and experienced travelers to help you and your pet have a safe and enjoyable flight.
Flying With A Pet Doesn’t Have To Be Scary
If you’re considering with flying with a pet for the first time, chances are you feel uncertain at best. Arranging your pet’s reservation and getting all the required documents can be daunting.
And then there are the airline’s pet requirements, and concerns for your pet’s safety during the flight. Perhaps you’ve even considered driving to your destination instead! But if time is a factor, or you’re traveling to another part of the world, flying might be your only option.
If that’s the case, remember that millions of animals fly each year in the United States alone. We hear about the few tragedies and mishaps in the media, but the vast majority of pets traveling by air arrive safely.
Making sure your pet has a safe flying experience starts with you. Be sure to research the airline’s pet policy and record. And talk to staff before and during your flight to help calm your fears. By following the tips below, you will feel more prepared for your flight so you can both arrive a little less stressed.
The first step when flying with a pet is to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. You want to ensure that your pet is in good health to fly. If you get the go-ahead from your vet to travel, make a second appointment close to your date of departure. Then check with the airline and state veterinarian at your destination to determine what documents you’ll need. It’s not unusual for airlines to require a health certificate that’s issued within 10 days of your flight.
2. Make Sure Your Pet’s Breed Isn’t Restricted
Many airlines have breed restrictions for dog and cat breeds, limiting when Brachycephalic or “short-nosed” breeds like Boston terriers, boxers, and bulldogs, and others can fly. These restrictions are typically related to the weather and for your pet’s safety. Locations with extreme heat and cold are affected more than places with moderate temperatures.
Even during restricted periods, some airlines will allow you to fly with your short-nosed pet in a cabin. Of course then they fit within the size and weight guidelines. Always check with the airline before purchasing your ticket.
Airlines allow a limited number of pets per flight, so book early to ensure you can fly when you choose. If your pet is flying in cargo or you’re traveling internationally, it’s especially important to make your reservations well in advance. The airline’s and destination’s requirements sometimes take months of preparation.
If you want your pet to be as comfortable during the flight as possible, purchase your pet travel carrier well in advance and start teaching your pet it’s a wonderful place to hang out. Your goal is for your pet to think of the kennel as a den – a portable “safe space” where they can relax and know all is well.
To help your pet develop a positive association with the kennel, start by feed her in it for several weeks leading up to your flight. Put her bed and a few favorite toys inside to encourage her to play, sleep, and retreat inside.
Initially you’ll want to leave the door open, so your pet can come and go as she chooses. Once she’s voluntarily hopping in the kennel, start closing the door for a minute or two. Then slowly lengthen the time the door is closed. If your pet shows signs of anxiety when the door is closed, you’ve moved too quickly. Back up to the previous step and try again.
For your flight, place your dog’s travel bed in the kennel and cover it puppy pads — just in case of an accident.
5. Don’t Give Your Pet A Sedative
Unless your veterinarian recommends it, don’t give your pet a sedative for the flight. Tranquilizers can interfere with the ability to regulate body heat at high altitudes.
If you’re concerned your pet experiencing anxiety, consider calming drops, a vest designed to calm your pet, or CBD oil or treats. (Be sure to check the airlines regulations before flying with CBD oil.)
6. Ask To Board Early
Flying with a pet could make you eligible for early boarding on some airlines – just ask one of the gate agents. Getting yourself and your pet settled before your flight can take some time, and having a few extra minutes will help you both remain calm.
Each airline has its own requirements for pets flying in the cabin and in cargo. Determine which documents your airline requires and keep them in a place you have easy access to so that when you’re asked by various staff members, you don’t struggle to find them.
8. Locate Pet Relief Areas Before You Fly
Airports are required to offer pet relief areas. Before your flight, map out the closest one to your terminal for efficient pet potty breaks during layovers. You can also ask the staff at the airline gate.
It’s possible that your pet won’t use the pet relief are since the locations are often indoors and on outdoor carpet. Or maybe he just likes to break the rules. Either way, keep some puppy pads handy, in case your pet decides to go somewhere outside of the designated area.
9. Bring A Chew Toy For Take Off & Landing
Like humans, pressure will build up in your pet’s ears during take off and landing. You might see your pet batting at her ears or shaking her head frequently. Give her a chew toy or hard, chewy treats to help relieve any discomfort.
Follow these tips, and flying with your pet will be safe and comfortable for you both.
Southern Utah has the highest concentration of natural wonders found anywhere on earth. And pet friendly Kanab is the perfect basecamp for your adventures! With three national parks, two national monuments, a national forest, a national recreation area, a state park, and all the activities Kanab has to offer, exploring here with your pets is a dream!
In many ways pet friendly Kanab, Utah feels much as you’d expect any city with less than 5,000 residents to feel. It has a friendly, small-town vibe where serenity and relaxation come easily.
But Kanab’s serendipitous location provides once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to experience some of the most spectacular scenery in America. Visitors here are spoiled with options. And at the end of each day, the unique accommodations and brilliant restaurants restore your body for the next day’s adventure.
Kanab’s Top Attractions
If you’re on a mission to visit America’s most amazing places, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better vacation destination than Kanab, Utah! Three national parks within easy driving distance. Two breathtaking national monuments. A stunning national forest. A national recreation area visited by more than two million people a year. And that’s just the beginning!
National Parks
Bryce Canyon National Park
Just a 90 minute drive from pet friendly Kanab, Bryce Canyon is known for its incredible rock formations. Like a forest of spires and fins clinging to the canyon walls, the fantastically colored hoodoos are constantly changing.
Wind, rain, snow, freezing, and thawing sculpt the stone, forming new hoodoos while turning others to piles of clay. No matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to see.
More than five million people visit the Grand Canyon each year. But only a fraction of them come to the North Rim. From Kanab, you can be there in 90 minutes!
Unfortunately, people traveling with pets will find the North Rim less pet friendly than the South Rim. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth seeing!
At the North Rim dogs are allowed on the Bridal Path and the portion of the Arizona Trail that runs between North Kaibab Trailhead and the north entrance of the park. Both trails are pretty, but neither have views of the canyon.
Pets are also allowed at the picnic areas and in the parking areas of the overlooks. So, pack a lunch and plan to drive the 30 miles of scenic roads at the North Rim, stopping along the way to take in the views.
Zion National Park, Utah’s oldest and most popular park, is a 40-minute drive from pet friendly Kanab. With the red and white walls of Navajo sandstone towering 2,000 feet above you, hiking with your pet in Zion is an experience you’ll never forget.
Leashed pets can join you on all paved surfaces at Zion. This includes along public roads and parking areas, in the developed campgrounds, at all turnouts, and on the Pa’rus Trail. In addition, pets are welcome in the picnic areas and on the grounds of the Zion Lodge.
Over 250 million years of the Earth’s geologic history can be seen in the colorful cliffs at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the monument covers nearly 1.9 million acres. And the Grand Staircase unit is just a few minutes from pet friendly Kanab.
Choose to explore on your own, or hire one Kanab’s excellent outdoor guides and outfitters to show you the hard-to-reach places.
Willis Creek Canyon in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument
People come from all over the world to see the colorful sandstone swirls in Vermilion Cliffs. But if you’re driving from Kanab, you can be there in about 45 minutes.
The Marble Canyon Area is easily accessed from Hwy 89A where it crosses the Colorado River. Here you can take in the views from your car or enjoy a short hike. And as you cross the Navajo Bridge keep your eyes peeled for the California condors that make the bridge home.
If you’re looking for a more remote adventure, you’ll need to plan ahead. Dogs can hike with you in Coyote Buttes North (The Wave), Coyote Buttes South, and for overnight trips in Paria Canyon, but both you and your pup must obtain a permit in advance.
Coyote Buttes – Vermillion Cliffs National Monument
National Forest
Dixie National Forest
If you’re looking to do some hiking with your furry travel buddy, don’t miss the Dixie National Forest. Just 30 minutes from Kanab, Dixie covers almost 2 million acres and is criss-crossed by hundreds of miles of trails.
The best part is … every square inch of the national forest is pet friendly! From mountain tops to pastoral valleys, you and your pet could spend a lifetime in Dixie and not see it all.
Lake Powell / Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
The deep blue waters of Lake Powell are framed by soaring red peaks. And from pet friendly Kanab, you can be there in about 75 minutes. Though it’s a popular destination, the shoreline here is longer than the entire West Coast of the United States. So you can always find a secluded cove or canyon.
Of course, being on the water is the main attraction here. And you’ll find pet friendly powerboats, houseboats, and kayak rentals available. So you and your pet can have a ball exploring Lake Powell in the watercraft of your choice. Or, when water levels allow, take the ferry between Bullfrog Marina and Halls Crossing for a leisurely cruise.
Named for a Paiute word meaning “place of the willows,” Kanab, Utah is the perfect basecamp for exploring all the pet friendly wonders of Southern Utah. Offering world-class hiking and hidden slot canyons, it’s also home to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. And having the largest animal sanctuary in the United States in your backyard makes Kanab an extremely pet friendly city! There are few places where pets aren’t welcome in Kanab. So you and your furry travel companion will find plenty to do together!
Best Time To Visit With Pets
Spring and fall are the most obvious times to visit the American Southwest with pets. However, with 256 days of sunshine each year, chances are good that you will see several days of blue skies and sunshine anytime you visit pet friendly Kanab, Utah.
If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds at the national parks, plan your trip in winter when highs in Kanab are in the mid-40s to low 50s. In fact, the only way to experience Zion Canyon — the most popular attraction at Zion National Park — with your pets is to visit when the park’s shuttles aren’t operating. And they only shut down for certain periods between December and February.
An Entertaining History
Before it became travel destination, Kanab was honing its skills as a gracious host to actors and film crews drawn by its scenery. Nicknamed “Little Hollywood,” hundreds of films have been produced in the area since the 1920s when the local landscape became a favorite for cowboy movies.
Celebrating that heritage, more than 90 plaques now make up Kanab’s Walk of Fame. For old movie buffs, strolling around downtown checking out the photos, actor bios, and film credits for the movies and TV shows shot in Kanab and Kane County is endlessly entertaining!
Myles reading Dale Evans’ plaque on the Walk of Fame in Kanab
Kanab’s Pet Friendly Trails System
The selection of pet friendly trails in and around Kanab offers something for everyone. From dino tracks to waterfalls, remote lakes to slot canyons, easy jaunts to all-day treks, you’ll find the perfect option for you and your pet on the Visit Southern Utah website.
Spend A Day At Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Located on 6,000 acres just five miles north of downtown Kanab, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is much more than its name implies. Started in 1984, Best Friends has gone from caring for animals in search of homes to leading a nationwide movement to bring an end to the killing of homeless dogs and cats. No animal lover would consider a trip to Kanab complete without visiting this inspiring place.
On any given day, the sanctuary is home to as many as 1,600 dogs, cats, birds, bunnies, horses, pigs and other animals. And you’re invited to take a free, guided tour, volunteer to spend time with the animals, or simply enjoy the trails and extraordinary surroundings with your pet.
The sanctuary is open seven days a week, but tours and volunteer opportunities fill up quickly, so be sure to sign up early! During our visit we took the Grand Sanctuary Tour, following the tour shuttle in our car with Myles and listening to the tour guide on our radio. Then we did the Pig & Goat Walking Tour with Myles, keeping him outside the enclosures.
Our next stop was for a wonderful, vegan lunch at Angel Village Café. The view from their patio overlooking Angel Canyon will take your breath away!
Finally, we hit the trails with Myles! Hiking the 1.3-mile Angels Overlook Trail took us to the Gratitude Garden and fantastic views of the canyon below.
There are several trails to choose from, so pick up a trail map at the Welcome Center. And, if you’re not traveling with a pet of your own, sign up to take one of Best Friends’ resident dogs along for company!
Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Just 22 miles west of Kanab, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park protects 1,200 acres of shifting sand dunes! Created by wind funneling through a notch between the Moquith and Moccasin Mountains, it’s a completely unique landscape to see in this part of the country.
Pets on leash are welcome throughout the park, though walking on the sand can be difficult for dogs and humans alike. Also be aware that much of the dunes are open to OHV use, so watch for vehicles as you explore. If traversing the dunes isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other pet friendly hiking opportunities in Kanab and the surrounding area.
The park also has two campgrounds and a nice picnic area if you are looking for a place to eat lunch.
Where To Stay In Pet Friendly Kanab
Disclosure: We were provided with free accommodations at Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile in exchange for sharing our experience with you.
Hopefully, you’re intrigued enough about pet friendly Kanab to plan a trip of your own. If so, you’ll find a nice selection of pet friendly hotels and several campgrounds to choose from! But if you’re an animal lover, there’s really only one place to stay … Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile.
Located on the north side of downtown Kanab, the Roadhouse is the most pet-centric hotel we’ve ever seen. And staying there helps support the lifesaving mission of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, just five miles up the road.
Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile
In a world where some “pet friendly” hotels barely tolerate pets, we’d give Best Friends Roadhouse a 16 out of 10 on the pet friendliness scale. They offer a truly unique experience — the opportunity to stay in a hotel designed for pets!
Early morning sunshine hitting the red rocks at Best Friendly Roadhouse
Our room was lovely, with a small kitchen equipped to prepare and serve simple meals and a dining area to share them. The bed was incredibly comfortable. And the bathroom was gorgeous!
But a lot of hotels have beautiful rooms and cozy beds. Where Best Friends Roadhouse really stands out is in the ways it caters to pets — starting with their pet policy. There is no pet fee, no weight restrictions, no breed restrictions, cats are welcome, and up to four pets are allowed per room.
But even their stellar pet policy isn’t what makes Best Friends Roadhouse so special. It’s the thoughtful amenities that makes your pet’s stay truly memorable.
After a long day in the car, Myles and I were both delighted to find that the Roadhouse has two dog parks! He got to run around and burn off some energy. And Rod and I were off the hook for a long evening walk.
The hotel provided dog bowls for Myles in our room, but he much preferred slurping from the outdoor dog fountain.
Not being a bath-lover, he was less excited to see the pet spa beside the guest laundry. Fortunately, we didn’t have any incidents that required Myles to get a bath. But it would be super handy for anyone whose dog looks forward to a bit of pampering!
The next treat we discovered (other than the human cookies and dog treats we received at check-in) was that Myles had TWO dog beds to choose from … not including ours!
Dog den at Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile in Kanab, Utah
Myles sleeping on a pull-out dog bed at the foot of the human bed
And the mercantile, in addition to serving a fantastic breakfast, is full of all kinds of goodies. They even have pet gear, in case there’s something you forget to pack.
They’ve even thought of the people who love animals but aren’t traveling with their own pet. The folks at Best Friends Roadhouse will arrange for your choice of a dog, cat, or bunny from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary to sleepover with you. Now, that’s taking pet-friendliness to a whole new level!!
Places To Eat In Pet Friendly Kanab
As I mentioned, Kanab is very pet friendly, and we had no trouble finding outdoor dining options with Myles. From simple takeaway fare, to a vegan taco truck, to outstanding fine dining, going hungry isn’t a concern.
Here is a list of pet friendly eateries in Kanab that offer pet friendly seating:
Angel Village Café – buffet lunch from 11:30am – 1pm daily on the pet friendly patio overlooking Angel Canyon
Best Friends Mercantile – snacks, coffee, and light fare which you can take to go or eat on the covered patio
Brown Box Bakeshop – bakery, soup, sandwiches, and ice cream with sidewalk seating
Fusion House – Pan-Asian cuisine with sidewalk seating
Rocking V Café – comfort food, from buffalo tenderloin to deep dish enchiladas, and the best bread pudding I’ve ever eaten. Pet friendly sidewalk seating.
Wild Thyme Café – fantastic American eatery serving chops, steaks, seafood, and vegetarian options on a quiet, shady deck
Pet friendly patio seating at the Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile
Dog friendly sidewalk seating at Rocking V Café in Kanab
Shaded dog friendly deck at Wild Thyme Café in Kanab, Utah
We hope our stay in pet friendly Kanab, Utah inspires you to explore Southern Utah with your pets! If you’ve visited Kanab, we’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.
Waggin’ trails!
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There’s something special about desert hiking with dogs. The serenity and tranquility of the vast landscape is peaceful. But, in the back of your mind, you also know that the place you’re in can kill you if you’re not careful. These tips will help you get the most out of your desert hikes and keep yourself and your dog safe.
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Bailey and I spend a lot of time hiking. And, after spending most of my life in the Midwest, visiting the desert comes with a certain amount of anxiety. The desert commands respect. And desert hiking with dogs means you need to take precautions to stay safe.
When my search for tips and resources came up empty, Bailey became my guinea pig. Together we developed this guide to the gear needed for desert hiking with dogs. Hopefully it makes your trip planning easier!
Essentials For Desert Hiking With Dogs
Bailey thinks the only gear she needs is her ball! But when you’re hiking the desert, there are a few other things you’ll need to pack.
Desert Dog Essential #1: Water
This probably sounds obvious, but when you’re hiking with dogs in the desert you need to pack water. A LOT of water. I alway carry some water for Bailey when we’re hiking. But, being a dog, she sometimes supplements my tap water with samples from streams, lakes, and puddles.
When you’re hiking the the desert with dogs, water is unreliable. A stream that was flowing last week could be totally dry today. So you have to take all the water you and your dog will need during your hike.
You can either carry the water for your and your dog, or let her carry her own beverages with a Ruffwear hydration dog backpack.
Giving your dog an efficient way to drink also helps reduce the amount of water one of you has to carry. My old dog, Duke, would only drink out of a bowl, so whatever he didn’t finish was wasted.
Bailey and I have developed an awesome system, but it took some practice! Every so often, I ask Bailey if she wants water. If she does, she faces me and sits down. Then I squirt water into her mouth from a water bottle.
Since it’s not natural for dogs to drink like this, they might sputter a bit until they get the hang of it. Just go slow and only give small drinks each time.
Using a collapsible water bottle works well. The key is the pop-top, which allows me to create a “drinking fountain” for Bailey. Of course, any water bottle will do, but these roll up for easy storage.
Desert Dog Essential #2: Dog Boots
In Chicago, Bailey had dog boots for the occasional hike in the snow and to protect her paws from the salty winter streets. But in the desert, her boots never leave my backpack.
Since dogs regulate their body temperature through their paw pads, boots aren’t something Bailey wears constantly while we hike. That could cause her to overheat. Instead, I consider them emergency equipment — carried in case of an injury, if the ground becomes hot, or when we encounter uncomfortable trail surfaces.
If you’re hiking with a dog on hot sand, like we did at Great Sand Dunes National Park, dog boots an absolute necessity. We like the Ultra Paws Rugged Dog Boots for their 2nd velcro strap, which really keeps the boots in place. But there are a lot of great dog boot options to choose from.
On longer hikes, you’re likely to stop and take a few breaks. I always carry a small sit-pad for myself – it’s a smaller version of my Therma-Rest sleeping pad. And, after watching Bailey struggle to find a place to rest, I decided to throw one in for her, too.
This may seem like overkill, but the desert is littered with rock shards, prickly brush, and cactus needles. If you’re looking forward to a leisurely lunch along the trail, bring something comfortable for your dog to lie down on. It’s a small investment to make everyone’s day more enjoyable.
Desert Dog Essential #4: Fine-Tooth Comb
This was a brand-new addition to my hiking gear – a special requirement for desert hiking with dogs. A fine-tooth comb allows you to remove cactus spines, goathead thorns, and sand burrs from your dog’s paws or fur quickly and easily. And, as an added bonus, they don’t end up stuck in your fingers! It’s well worth the two-dollar investment.
Desert Dog Essential #5: Tweezers
For cactus spines too small for the comb to catch, splinters, and even bee stingers, a simple pair to tweezers can save the day.
A fun fact I’ve learned (the hard way) is that, even if your dog isn’t bothered, you can get poked by spikes hitching a ride in their fur or hanging on the leash!
Carrying a good first aid kit when your hiking in the desert with dogs goes without saying. But most don’t come with first-aid tape for pets. This is just as important as carrying Band-Aids for yourself. And you can order it online, or pick it up at any pet store.
The tape is self-adhesive and won’t stick to skin or fur. So you won’t cause your pet additional pain while wrapping or unwrapping their injury. The tape is stretchy, so be sure to apply it as loosely as possible to avoid cutting off the circulation. And get your pet the appropriate medical attention as soon as possible.
Dirty dog secret: Bailey likes to eat bees! Seriously, when things start buzzing around, it’s like she’s part frog. She’s even caught a few. And, so far, she hasn’t had a bad reaction. But just like in humans, your pet’s allergies can start at any point in their life. Adding Benadryl to our first aid kit was important for us both.
At your next vet visit, ask your dog’s doctor whether they recommend giving your pet Benadryl for an allergic reaction. If they approve, confirm the proper dosage. Then put a note with that information in your first aid kit along with the medication, so you’ll have it handy. (Benadryl dosage for dogs is much higher than for humans, so it’s important to know how much to administer.)
Though they’ll do their best to avoid you and your dog, it is possible to have a rattlesnake encounter when you’re hiking with dogs in the desert. For those of you planning to spend a lot of time on desert trails, or if your dog hikes off-leash, consider vaccinating them for rattlesnake bites.
Having your dog vaccinated will give you more time to get them to a veterinarian if they are bitten. Opinions vary, so talk with your veterinarian to determine what’s best for your dog.
We hope that when you’re planning to go hiking with dogs you find this information helpful. If you have any other desert hiking tips, please share them in the comments below!
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Dog friendly San Diego offers many, many activities for pet travelers and their furry travel buddies. And one thing to be sure you don’t miss is Fiesta Island! Located just north of downtown San Diego, it’s one of the city’s pet friendly hidden gems.
Dog Friendly San Diego From A Local’s Persective
I am the happy owner of a wonderful rescue pup, and we are always on the lookout for a new adventure. After searching for local spots where my dog could ditch his leash, I found a great one right in our own backyard! It’s Fiesta Island in San Diego, and Koa and I can’t wait to show you the dog friendly beach and trails!
Fiesta Island is a many-layered cake: the bay, the shore, the RVs, the jet skis, the horses, the dogs, the people, and the wildlife. I’d visited many times before I had a dog, so I can confirm – it’s even better with a canine companion!
It is a unique space where you can enjoy bay views and a nice breeze.
Getting To Fiesta Island
The dog friendly beach and trails on Fiesta Island are just seven miles north of downtown San Diego, and well worth the drive. And when you arrive, parking is easy and FREE!
Grab your gear and walk across the bridge to the island where you can explore beaches around the entire perimeter. Or park on the island if you don’t plan to walk all the way around.
The loop around the park is just under 6 miles, and that includes a trek to the top of the hill at the center of the island where there is plenty of space to explore.
Keep in mind that beyond the occasional ports-potty, there are no restrooms or drinking water on the island. So come prepared! And also make sure you bring plenty of waste bags to pick up after your pet.
What You’ll See On Fiesta Island
We started by heading up the hill to explore the top of the island. Most people miss this spot, and we had it all to ourselves that day!
Then we continued our adventure down along the shore. It was a pretty warm day, so Koa enjoyed the chance to splash in the water. Though he knows how to swim, he has decided to limit his water activities to places below shoulder level. He’s a pretty funny dog.
During our visit, Koa and I saw cyclists, kayakers, runners, walkers, dogs, and horses swimming in the bay. We took regular breaks to play fetch and check out the other dogs and horses. There is something so wonderful about taking your dog to a place where he’s allowed to run free!
But remember that the road does run along the shoreline. So make sure your pet can be controlled with voice commands. The speed limit is low, but it’s still better to be safe than sorry! And if you’ll be driving around the island, be sure to obey the speed limit and keep an eye out for pups and pedestrians.
Next Stop: Old Town San Diego
After 3 hours exploring the dog friendly trails and beaches on Fiesta Island, we drove to Old Town San Diego. It’s an excellent way to wrap up your day!
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is dog friendly. Pets are not allowed inside any of the structures – but there’s still plenty to see!
Through museum exhibitions, restored historic buildings, living history demonstrations and special events, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park provides visitors a glimpse at the way San Diego was transformed from a Kumeyaay village to a Mexican pueblo to an American Settlement.
Five original adobe buildings are part of the historic park, which include museums, retail shops, and several restaurants. The Historic Plaza remains a gathering place. And visitors can also observe a working blacksmith shop, enjoy music, and meet the park’s burros.
I hope you get to enjoy dog freedom on Fiesta Island when you visit San Diego!
Not all dogs are born knowing how to swim. Even if you have a breed that’s know for loving the water, you might still might be teaching your dog to swim! And helping him learn now will not only strengthen your bond, but will set you up for a lifetime of fun together.
Why Spend Time Teaching A Dog To Swim?
Every year, an estimated 10,000 dogs drown in the United States. Most of these tragedies occur when dogs get into a pool and can’t get out. Just like people, once an animal is in the water, they quickly tire splashing about. So, teaching your dog to swim is one of the most crucial skills he can learn.
Teaching your dog to love the water while he’s young has additional benefits besides safety. Swimming can be a safe aerobic exercise for dogs with arthritis, those with joint or spinal issues, or dogs that are overweight. In these situations, water supports the body, which reduces pain while allowing them to burn calories.
Swimming is also and excellent way for dogs to burn off excess energy. In fact, it is such great exercise that owners of performance dogs (those competing in agility, flyball, herding, frisbee, tracking and obedience) often use swimming to keep their dogs in top physical condition.
Does Your Dog Want To Swim?
Swimming is fun for a lot of dogs, but others are afraid of or don’t like the water. And some breeds are not naturally built for water sports.
The short-necked, large-chested breeds like Bulldogs can have trouble keeping their heads above water. And even some Retrievers and Spaniels need a little practice to perfect their “doggie paddle.”
GoPetFriendly fans will know that Myles is not a fan of being wet under any circumstances. He even walks around puddles! So, he’s happier admiring the water from a distance.
But Buster loved to swim! Amy and Rod spent many years locating pet friendly beaches where Buster could enjoy playing in the waves.
So how will you know where your dog falls on the scale from “might melt if splashed” to “natural born swimmer?” One telltale sign is if the only way he’ll get in the water is on a raft!
Actually, there’s an easy way to tell if swimming is one of your dog’s intrinsic skills. Just hold your pup, or walk with him on leash, in the water. If he struggles to return to dry land, your biggest challenge will likely be helping him overcome his fear. Use toys, treats, and a lot of patience to teach your dog swimming is fun. Or resign yourself (like Amy and Rod did with Myles) that swimming is not going to be one of your dog’s favorite activities.
If your dog starts paddling in the water, but only uses his front legs and slaps the surface with his back paws, he has the skills but will need some help from you to learn to swim. With a little time and support, your pup will learn to incorporate his hind legs and tail to stay afloat.
Finally, if your dog starts kicking his front and back legs in a coordinated motion, he’s got this! You lucked out with a dog who was born with the ability to swim.
Teaching Your Dog To Swim – Safety First
When teaching your dog to swim, a few simple rules can make for a lifetime of fun.
NEVER EVER leave your dog unsupervised around the water! Install a pool fence or safety alarm, and make sure your dog knows where the steps or ramp are located. You can even place a large vertical marker, like a plant or a flag, by the steps or ramp to help your dog orient himself.
Teach your dog to find the steps by gently placing him in the water with his feet on the top step and saying “steps” while he gains his footing. Then, take him a short distance away and let him swim to the steps, gradually increasing the distance.
Dogs need to get used to wearing a life vest. Give your pup plenty of time to figure out how his life vest works so he’s comfortable wearing it in the water.
During your lessons, maintain control of your dog by using a leash or long line attached to his dog life jacket. Stay in the shallow end, and keep the lessons short – no more than ten minutes. Dogs can’t tread water like humans and will tire quickly, unable to rest with their feet on the bottom.
If you swim in lakes or other natural bodies of water, vaccinate your dog against Giardia, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea and can be passed along to you.
Avoid water with a strong current, and stay away from boating and fishing areas where underwater hazards are more likely. Also look for stumps or rocks hidden in the water that your dog could land on when jumping.
Avoid swimming in water over your own head. A panicked pooch might try to “climb aboard” and push you under.
Food stays in your dog’s stomach longer than in yours. To prevent bloat, a potentially deadly condition, wait 1 ½ to 2 hours after eating before taking a swim.
Know pet first aid and brush up on your skills regularly.
Keep the directions to the nearest emergency veterinarian on hand – just in case!
When you’re teaching your dog to swim, you want to avoid bad experiences. Make sure the water isn’t too cold, and never throw or push your dog into the water. Instead, lure him in with a water toy or treat. Many dogs will be happy to wade in as long as they can feel the bottom.
Take Frequent Breaks
Some dogs love the water and won’t want to stop. If your dog starts breathing heavily or if his back end begins to sag in the water, it’s time to get out and take a rest.
Rinse Off To Keep Your Dog Healthy
Chlorine can irritate skin and eyes, and bacteria from lakes or rivers can make your pet sick. After swimming, rinse or shampoo your dog’s coat, and take special care to dry out his ears well.
Have Fun Teaching Your Dog to Swim
Although dogs generally want to please us, you’ll know if your dog is truly enjoying the water. Every sport is not for every person or every dog! Wading in the kiddie pool might be more his speed. Or maybe he’s just a land-lover at heart. But if your dog is having fun, you will too!
More Water Sports
Once he knows how to say afloat and how to get in and out of the water, there are many other fun activities you can do with your canine buddy! Canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, dock diving, retrieving contests, and even team swims await you and your four-legged Michael Phelps or Amanda Beard.
Just remember to be patient and keep your lessons short. Before you know it you and your dog will be having a great time splashing together!
About the Author: Pet safety crusader, Denise Fleck is an award-winning author & radio show host and animal care instructor who developed the curriculum for her Pet First-Aid & CPCR Classes after training with dozens of schools and organizations, practicing, attending seminars and practicing some more.
Who doesn’t love finding fun new things to do with their furry best friend? Mark your calendar now for this truly unique experience — taking your pup to a dog friendly hockey game! Not only will you be supporting your local minor league or college hockey team, but you’ll be making memories at these “Pucks and Paws” games!
We love sharing new and creative experiences for you and your pet to enjoy together. And how many pups can tell their friends they’ve been to a dog friendly hockey game?! Baseball … sure. Dogs have been heading to the ballpark for years. But hockey?! It’s a dog’s dream to don his favorite team’s bandana and chill at the rink!
Minor league teams have been offering dog friendly hockey games for years. And this year, we were excited to see an NHL team join the fun! The Pittsburgh Penguins hosted their first-ever Pucks and Paws Night on October 1, inviting fans and their dogs, to attend a preseason game. It’s great to see dog friendly hockey games expanding to more venues, and we hope the trend continues next season!
Of course, we’ll always be grateful for the minor league teams across the country that made dog friendly hockey games a thing. They still provide most of the opportunities for people and their pups to enjoy a game together. And they have 36 dog friendly hockey games scheduled during the 2024 / 2025 season for you and your pup to see!
If you know of other dog friendly hockey games we missed, please leave a comment and we’ll add them to the list!
Dog Friendly Hockey Games 2024 / 2025 Season
October
Geneva, Illinois – Saturday, October 5, 2024 – The Chicago Steel host the Muskegon Lumberjacks in the first dog friendly hockey game of the season!
Charleston, South Carolina – Saturday, October 26, 2024 – The South Carolina Stingrays host the Greenville Swamp Rabbits. Join the pet costume contest!
November
Des Moines, Iowa – Sunday, November 3, 2024 – The Iowa Wild host the San Jose Barracuda. The first 400 dogs will receive a collapsible bowl! Dress your dog up in costume for HOWL-ween!
West Valley City, Utah – Saturday, November 9, 2024 – The Utah Grizzlies host the Tahoe Knight Monsters. Get a Grizzlies toy for your pup!
San Jose, California – Sunday, November 10, 2024 – The San Jose Barracuda host the Colorado Eagles.
Springfield, Massachusetts – Friday, November 15, 2024 – The Springfield Thunderbirds host the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Saturday, November 16, 2024 – The Milwaukee Admirals host the Grand Rapids Griffins.
Grand Rapids, Michigan – Sunday, November 24, 2024 – The Grand Rapids Griffins host the Iowa Wild.
Jacksonville, Florida – Saturday, November 30, 2024 – The Jacksonville Icemen host the Greenville Swamp Rabbits.
Wichita, Kansas – Saturday, November 30, 2024 – The Wichita Thunder host the Worchester Railers.
Cincinnati, Ohio – Wednesday, December 4, 2024 – The Cincinnati Cyclones host the Fort Wayne Komets.
January
Moline, Illinois – Sunday, January 5, 2025 – The Quad City Storm host the Fayetteville Marksmen.
Wheeling, West Virginia – Saturday, January 25, 2025 – The Wheeling Nailers host the Kansas City Mavericks.
Portland, Maine – Sunday, January 26, 2025 – The Maine Mariners host the Trois-Rivières Lions.
Toledo, Ohio – Sunday, January 26, 2025 – The Toledo Walleye host the Iowa Heartlanders.
February
Jacksonville, Florida – Saturday, February 8, 2025 – The Jacksonville Icemen host the Trois-Rivières Lions.
March
Evansville, Indiana – Saturday, March 1, 2025 – The Evansville Thunderbolts host the Quad City Storm.
Wichita, Kansas – Saturday, March 1, 2025 – The Wichita Thunder host the Kansas City Mavericks.
Austin, Texas – Sunday, March 2, 2025 – The Texas Stars host the Chicago Wolves.
Cleveland, Ohio – Saturday, March 8, 2025 – The Cleveland Monsters host the Hershey Bears.
Fargo, North Dakota – Saturday, March 15, 2025 The Fargo Force host the Muskegon Lumberjacks. Don’t miss the Corgi races!
Johnstown, Pennsylvania – Saturday, March 8, 2025 – The Johnstown Tomahawks host the Elmira Aviators.
Allen, Texas – Sunday, March 16, 2025 – The Allen Americans host the Utah Grizzlies.
Bloomington, Illinois – Friday, March 21, 2025 – The Bloomington Bison host the Kalamazoo Wings.
Roanoke, Virginia – Friday, March 21, 2025 – The Rail Yard Dawgs host the Knoxville Ice Bears.
Cincinnati, Ohio – Saturday, March 22, 2025 – The Cincinnati Cyclones host the Kalamazoo Wings.
Loveland, Colorado – Sunday, March 23, 2025 – The Colorado Eagles host the Tucson Roadrunners.
Reading, Pennsylvania – Sunday, March 23, 2025 – The Reading Royals host the Norfolk Admirals.
Stateline, Nevada – Wednesday, March 26, 2025 – The Tahoe Knight Monsters host the Idaho Steelheads. Get there early for a collapsible bowl giveaway!
Youngstown, Ohio – Friday, March 28, 2025 – The Youngstown Phantoms host the Fargo Force.
San Jose, California – Saturday, March 29, 2025 – The San Jose Barracuda host the Abbotsford Canucks.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Saturday, March 29, 2025 – It’s a Pooch Party when the Charlotte Checkers host the Wilkes Barre/Scranton Penguins.
Kalamazoo, Michigan – Saturday, March 29, 2025 – The KalamazooWings host the South Carolina Stingrays. Don’t miss the K-Wings Dog Leash Giveaway (1st 1,000 fans), the pup race during the first intermission, and the Paw Patrol Specialty Jersey auction post-game.
April
Syracuse, New York – Friday, April 4, 2025 – The Syracuse Crunch host the Toronto Marlies.
Utica, New York – Wednesday, April 9, 2025 – The Utica Comets host the Syracuse Crunch.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Saturday, April 12, 2025 – The Milwaukee Admirals host the Chicago Wolves.
Each stadium has its own requirements for proof of vaccinations, weight limits, and other particulars. Be sure to visit the team’s website or call the ticket office to confirm the details before purchasing your tickets. Then enjoy the game!
Road trips are a classic form of adventure. One of my favorite vacations growing up was our family road trip to Montana … probably because my yellow lab, Chica, was allowed to come along. Epic road trips are still my favorite way to travel with my dogs. If you agree, renting an adventure van with your pets might be a great option!
Renting An Adventure Van With Pets
An enjoyable road trip is about more than the destination. You also need the appropriate vehicle for your journey. Campervans are a great choice if you’re not up for tent or car camping, but can live without all the bells and whistles of a full-blown RV.
Most campervans are just a bit bigger than your average vehicle. So they’re still easy to drive and park, while offering space for gear and room to sleep. And the bonus? Many rental companies understand that family vacations means taking your pets along, so there are several pet friendly options!
As with any rental, each company has different policies and fees. Call to verify any information you find online and clarify the rules regarding your furry companion.
I rented from Escape Campervans in Phoenix, and though they had no restrictions on size or breed, pets were not allowed during July, August, and September. While this seasonal restriction is meant to protect pets from hot vehicles, it could affect your plans if you’re hoping to travel during summer vacation.
Questions for your campervan rental company:
Are pets allowed in the van?
Are there additional fees for bringing a pet along?
Is there a pet weight limit or a breed restriction?
How many pets are allowed in the van?
Are there any additional rules pertaining to pets?
Safety During Travel
Once you’ve found a van that will accommodate your pets – it’s time to think about where they’ll ride while you’re driving.
Many campervans have a back seat that converts to a bed, so your pets might be able to ride just like they do in your regular vehicle. There are seat belts available to use with safety harnesses, and there might be space on the floor where a kennel would fit. When in doubt, ask the rental company – they might have additional suggestions.
Our adventure van, Hawaii, was fantastic! But the back seat was a little narrow for CW and Herc to share. Luckily, the seatbelts were accessible in the bed configuration, so I was able to keep the dogs secure without worrying that they’d slip off the seat.
Also, if your dog has a valid driver’s license and can reach the pedals, the driver’s seat is a potential option. Just kidding — Herc likes to scout for squirrels while CW and I nap!
What To Pack
Plan to bring what you’d normally take for a trip with your pets: food, water, bowls, leashes, harnesses, treats, and toys. Then add in any additional weather or terrain requirements: warm layers, raincoats, paw protection, outdoor beds, and towels for dirty paws.
Also bring plenty of cleaning supplies: paper towels, cleaning wipes, fabric freshener, etc. It’s Murphy’s Law that if your dog gets sick in the vehicle it will be when you’re in the middle of nowhere with no access to running water or a washing machine. Trust me on this one! Also, pick up some dry shampoo for pets. No one wants to be stuck with a smelly dog — especially in a small space.
Finally, outdoor beds and an old yoga mat made life infinitely easier. A small space can get dirty quickly, so clean dogs means a clean(er) van! The dog beds provided comfy seating where the pups could supervising my cooking. And the yoga mat made a handy doormat to wipe paws and keep dirt out of the van. Yoga mats are easy to clean and roll up nicely for storage. Plus they’re super-helpful for finding your zen after any less-than-stellar moments!
There are many, many places to take an adventure van and park for the night. You can go to state park campgrounds, private campgrounds, national parks, national forests, and Army Corp of Engineers campgrounds. You can also explore dispersed camping at Bureau of Land Management (BLM) locations.
Where you park really depends on what you find enjoyable and the amenities you want. Most state park, national park, ACE, and private campgrounds offer hot showers, flush toilets, and a campsite with a picnic table. Private campgrounds generally have additional amenities like internet, laundry facilities, and a camp store. National forest campgrounds usually have pit toilets and a picnic table at your site, but no showers. And BLM and other disbursed campsites might have a fire ring, but that will be about it. You can find listings for thousands of pet friendly campgrounds at GoPetFriendly.com.
Review the list of gear that comes with your van rental before you start packing. Some things you’d normally take might already be included.
The van we rented came with camp chairs, bedding (fitted sheet, comforter, and 2 pillows), and basic kitchenware (propane stove, 2 pots, 1 pan, 3 dining sets, and several other miscellaneous utensils). I brought another pillow and a few blankets so Cool Whip and Herc had familiar items to calm them at bedtime.
Storage is where you’ll want to get creative. Plastic storage containers are great for keeping gear secure, organized, and easy to move around. And in the evening you can easily shift the containers to the front seats for more sleeping space.
I like 15-quart sized containers; they hold a decent amount without getting too bulky. Our van had two built-in storage boxes, space underneath the bed, and a shelving unit in the kitchen area for stowing our gear.
At meal time, always be on the lookout for food thieves lurking in the background. They’ll patiently wait for you to forget about that plate of pancakes on the counter!
With those tips, we hope you’re soon renting an adventure van with your pets and making your own pawsome memories! If you get really ambitious, check out our blog post highlighting the most pet friendly sites along Historic Route 66!
New England has rich history, culture, fascinating cities, scenic villages, and outdoor adventures at every turn. It’s a brilliant place to explore white sand beaches, lighthouses, lakes, and panoramic mountain views with your best furry travel companion! Read on to learn about our top pet friendly things to do in New England.
New England is known for its quaint cities, beautiful nature, and rich history. Composed of six states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont, each has its own culture and claim to fame. From the peaks of the mountains to the crashing ocean shores, I am thrilled to share some of my favorite adventures in dog friendly New England!
Dog Friendly New England
Covered Bridges – Throughout New England
One of the most recognizable landmarks of New England is the covered bridge. Originally created to protect the deck from harsh New England winters, covered bridges have a distinctive style.
Though you don’t need to make a plan to stop at a covered bridge, they really are a must-do when traveling in New England! And almost every bridge is perfectly pet friendly!
Some of our covered bridge adventures have been simple — a regal pose and some time to sniff around a new place. Others have involved a hike, or picnicking on the sand or rocks under the bridge. Covered bridges offer the perfect opportunity to get a great photo of your dog with a quintessential New England landmark. Be sure to stop at a few on your adventure.
Gillette Castle – New Haddam, Connecticut
Gillette Castle State Park is our favorite destination in Connecticut. This state park was once owned by William Gillette, a famous actor in the early 1900’s. Later purchased by the State of Connecticut, the park now surrounds the famous Gillette Castle and has a visitor center, museum, hiking trails, and picnic areas. There are even live theater events and walking tours available to visitors!
Within the state park, leashed pets are welcome on the trails and in the picnic areas. We love meandering through the woods, catching glimpses of the Connecticut River from high above, traversing the ponds, and discovering the rustic bridges.
Though pets cannot go inside the buildings or on the decks, we also enjoy wandering around outside the castle. It seems there’s always something new to admire in the intricate details and spectacular architecture of this fieldstone structure.
Cape Cod is a peninsula in the Atlantic Ocean off the southeastern corner of Massachusetts. It’s a popular summer destination known for its laid-back lifestyle, fantastic beaches, lighthouses, ponds, villages, seafood shacks, and dockside restaurants.
We love Cape Cod most in the off-season, when it’s much less crowded. This might be the most dog friendly place in New England. Especially in Provincetown, which is located on the very tip of the peninsula.
Our Cape Cod memories include beaches, lighthouses, and Nickerson State Park. But we’ve also visited gardens, windmills, and even gone shopping with the dogs.
While there are unlimited options to choose from, our favorite dog friendly beaches are Town Neck Beach with its gorgeous boardwalk, and Cahoon Hollow Beach requiring a long walk down a dune. One aspect of Cape Cod I love is the dunes, a spectacular and unusual site in New England.
Halibut Point State Park – Rockport, Massachusetts
Halibut Point State Park is a coastal park north of Cape Cod with a granite quarry, almost three miles of trails, and expansive views. There is also a visitor center and a tower that looks like a lighthouse.
Halibut Point is one of our favorite destinations in Massachusetts. The trail begins in the woods before arriving at the tower and runs into the quarry. We never miss the opportunity to take photos at the tower before appreciating the unusual geological features of the quarry.
The trail loops around the quarry providing numerous opportunities to stand on the rocky ledges and admire the panoramic views.
As the trails head down to the shore, the rocks can be challenging for those with mobility issues. But for dogs, they provide great opportunities for rock jumping, tidal pool exploring, and lounging to appreciate the soothing sound of the crashing waves.
If you are a fan of a rocky shoreline, this definitely a place to include on your itinerary!
White Mountains – New Hampshire
The White Mountains cover about a quarter of New Hampshire and a small portion of western Maine. With 48 peaks of over 4,000 feet, they are are popular for skiing, hiking, and ATVing.
For a short visit to the White Mountains, take a drive on the Kancamangus Highway. Some of the best stops along the way are the Rocky Gorge, Lincoln Woods, and Sabbaday Falls.
For those looking to stretch their legs, you’ll find endless hiking trails for all ability levels. Many hikes even include lakes, waterfalls, and flowing water. Some of my favorites are Arethusa Falls, the Basin-Cascade Trail, Ripley Falls, the Ammoonsuc Trail, and Lonesome Lake. And almost every hike in the White Mountains is pet friendly! This is one dog friendly place in New England you simply can’t pass up.
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park spans approximately 250 acres on a peninsula between Casco Bay and the Harraseeket River. It contains various ecosystems and is known for the local ospreys that nest on Googins Island. Open year around, the park is popular for bird watching, walking, educational programs, and picnicking.
Freeport is known as the home of L.L. Bean, a retailer that sells outdoor clothing, shoes, and equipment. That might be why we’ve only recently discovered Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park. With miles of trails, ospreys flying above, and brilliant water views, we love the variety of terrain.
Several trails provide opportunities to get close to the water, whether by way of a sandy beach, stairwell, or jagged slopped rocks. But my favorite thing about Wolfe’s Neck Woods are the views of Casco Bay from high above the shore.
The dramatic colors of the water, almost tropical in places, contrast with the texture of the rocks creating a magnificent scene.
If you are a lover of geology, an avid birdwatcher, or a fan of a rocky shoreline, you won’t want to miss this place!
Acadia National Park – Bar Harbor, Maine
Acadia National Park encompasses 47,000 acres in Northeastern Maine. It is popular with fall foliage seekers, winter skiers, hikers, and those who enjoy fishing.
We have absolutely loved our visits to Acadia National Park — it’s definitely one of the most beautiful, dog friendly places in New England. The landscape is unique and gorgeous, with trees emerging from the rocky shore and waves crashing dramatically into the boulders. And exploring at sunrise or sunset adds a magical touch to the spectacular scene.
We are far from experts on this park. However some of our adventures have included hiking around Jordan Pond and visiting Cadillac Mountain.
There are several mountain climbs we are excited to try when we return. Most of Acadia is dog friendly, including the park shuttle. But a few places are not, so make sure you do some research.
Dog Mountain is a 150-acre dog friendly haven on a mountaintop in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. The property was owned by the talented artist, furniture maker, sculptor, and author, Stephen Huneck.
Sadly, Huneck died at just 61. However, his vision lives on with Dog Mountain’s Dog Chapel, art gallery, and numerous pet friendly trails, ponds. They even host dog friendly events, including parties and concerts.
The Dog Chapel is a healing place for everyone who’s loved and lost a pet. Photographs and notes to departed pets cover the walls several layers deep. And each detail of the chapel is exquisite, from the dog carvings on the pews, to the the stained glass windows, to the statues.
The second thing to love about Dog Mountain is the gallery, which contains artwork and numerous other products created by Huneck. The best part of this gallery is that dogs can shop by your side. All of the proceeds help to keep Dog Mountain in business, so be sure to support this wonderful place.
Finally, you won’t want to miss the trails, pond, and other features throughout the property. The trails are simple, but scenic, especially in the autumn months. There is also a beautiful pond where dog friends often gather to play. And you’ll find dog statues in various places, dog carvings adorn the fence, and other special treasures scattered around. I can promise that you have never seen anything like it!
Lighthouses – Throughout New England
Lighthouses are another classic sight as you travel throughout New England. Designed to assist ships with navigation, lighthouses are symbols of the area’s naval heritage.
All of the New England states have lighthouses, with Maine featuring the most. In order to have a true New England experience, you must visit a lighthouse. And you will be happy to find that many lighthouses are pet friendly!
Some of our lighthouse adventures have involved views from afar. Others have included hiking to or around a park in which one is located. And of course all of these visits included dozens of photos to memorialize our trip and these stunning structures.
I hope you and your dog will take the opportunity to visit New England. I can promise that you will not regret it!
About the Author: Heather Parsons is a dog rescue mom, blogger, outdoor lover, and a true Patriots fan! She and her dogs spend their free time exploring dog friendly New England, capturing the moments through words and photographs. You can learn more about these locations and follow Heather’s adventures at adventuresofshadowandwilma.com. All photos in this post belong exclusively to Heather Parsons.
Vacations are fun … but they’re better with your best friend. And choosing a pet friendly destination that isn’t over-run with tourists will really allow you to get away from it all!
Start making your plans, but don’t call the kennel or schedule a sitter for your dog or cat. We’re giving you the inside scoop on nine great pet friendly trips to avoid crowds, so you and your furry travel buddy can really relax.
Pet Friendly Trips To Avoid Crowds
Big Bend, Texas
Big Bend isn’t on the way to anywhere else, so you have to make an effort to get there. And that means fewer people do. Plus, with amazing scenery, friendly locals, and a pet friendly ghost town, you’ve got the makings for a fantastic pet friendly trip!
The diversity of Big Bend is its biggest draw. Massive canyons, vast expanses of desert, forested mountains, and an ever-changing river provide a stunning variety of landscapes to admire. One of the best places to experience all the area has to offer is Big Bend National Park.
Unfortunately, the National Park doesn’t allow pets on any trails, on the river, or in the backcountry. However, leashed pets can walk the 200+ miles of dirt roads running through the park – and most of them get little very little traffic! Jeep trips, a scenic drive along the Rio Grande to Presidio, and exploring the little communities are other popular activities.
Pet friendly campsites are available year round at Big Bend National Park and at many private campgrounds in the area. You’ll also find many, many pet friendly vacation rentals and Airbnbs in Big Bend. And there are four pet friendly hotels within easy driving distance of the National Park.
If you’re looking for pet friendly trips where you can really stretch out, it’s hard to beat Dixie National Forest. Covering almost 2 million acres, it would take a lifetime to explore the 1,600 miles of trails, hundreds of miles of scenic drives, 500 miles of fishing streams, and 90 lakes within the park’s boundaries. And the best part is … every square inch is pet friendly!
The stunning scenery of southern Utah is something to behold. But if you’re traveling with pets, the area’s most popular attractions – Bryce and Zion National Parks – will leave you disappointed. Both of these national parks have strict pet regulations.
Fortunately, Dixie National Forest provides plenty of options! We highly recommend the Red Canyon Trail, a five-miler with plenty of ups and downs that winds through the incredible hoodoos.
Dixie has 18 seasonal campgrounds, which are generally open from May through September. If you’re planning to travel outside camping season, the town of Panguitch has several pet friendly hotels which provide good access to the park.
Florence has all the amenities that make a shore town fun, but without the inflated price tag and touristy atmosphere. The locals are friendly and the pace is relaxed, though you and your pet will find plenty to do!
You can take a drive down to explore the Oregon Dunes, hike the Sweet Creek Trail past eleven waterfalls in the Siuslaw National Forest, or rent a kayak and watch for otters as you paddle the Siuslaw River.
Be sure to visit Cape Perpetua, where you and your pet can walk over ancient lava flows that formed the coast in this part of Oregon. All 26 miles of trails here are pet friendly, so you’re sure to find something that suits you. If you’re looking for the best view, climb nearly 800 feet to the overlook, where on a clear day you can see 70 miles of coastline!
Florence boasts a surprising number of pet friendly restaurants for a town this size. There are also several pet friendly vacation properties. And the Best Western welcomes two pets per room, including cats and dogs up to 80 pounds.
Fort Worden State Park – Port Townsend, Washington
Located on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, Fort Worden was an active military base until 1953. Now it’s a truly unique 433-acre state park overlooking the Puget Sound.
While exploring twelve miles of pet friendly trails, you’ll find bunkers and gun batteries atop strategic hilltops. Of course, your pet won’t want to miss the two miles of sandy beaches. And bring the canoe or kayak, because the park has two convenient boat ramps.
You can choose to stay in one of the park’s two pet friendly campgrounds, or opt for a truly unique pet friendly vacation rental experience. Three dozen Victorian houses which comprised the original barracks have been renovated into vacation accommodations, and five of the units welcome pets!
All of this is just a few miles from the quaint fishing village of Port Townsend. With historic buildings, a lovely marina, and great eateries, it’s a great choice for pet friendly trips.
For those looking to be dazzled by spectacular vistas, prepare yourself for the Hudson Valley. Just 90 minutes north of Manhattan, where the Hudson River cuts along the backbone of the Catskill Mountains, you’ll find rolling hills, quaint villages, and plenty of wide-open spaces to explore.
During your visit, plan to spend a day at Bear Mountain State Park. You’ll want to pack a picnic and pull up a bench while you admire the view. When the weather cooperates, you can spot Manhattan’s skyscrapers on the horizon!
After lunch, hit the Appalachian Trail on the east side of the mountain. It includes 800 stone stairs and is considered one of the most beautiful trails built in the last fifty years. And be sure to take a stroll around Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where many famous (and some infamous) people have been laid to rest.
There is no shortage of lodging options for pet friendly trips to the Hudson Valley! From Kingston to Newburgh to Tarrytown, you’ll find campgrounds, hotels, and vacation rentals ready to welcome your furry family members.
Take the ferry to Mackinac Island, and you’re in for a special treat! At just 3.8 square miles, this jewel sits in Lake Huron between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas, about a 15-minute ferry ride from shore.
Eighty percent of the island is preserved within Mackinac Island State Park, and personal automobiles have been prohibited here since 1898. Pets, however, are very welcome! You’ll find ferries, lodging, restaurants, horse-drawn taxis, guided carriage tours, and bike and kayak rentals for cats and dogs eager to explore.
Though camping isn’t allowed on Mackinac Island, there are three pet friendly lodging options to choose from. Mission Point Resort has beautiful grounds and a restaurant with pet friendly patio, and welcomes pets for an additional per-stay fee of $100, plus tax. Park Place Suites offers three condo units in the heart of downtown, which come complete with a yard. They charge an additional pet fee of $30 per night. Sunset Condos offers more seclusion and fantastic views of Lake Huron and the Mackinac Bridge. Their pet fee is based on the size of your pet – less than 40 pounds is $75 per stay, more than 40 pounds is $100 per stay, and two pets over 40 pounds are $150 per stay.
For off-the-beaten-path pet friendly road trips, there’s nothing like the Natchez Trace! Stretching 444 miles from Nashville, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi, it’s a blissfully quiet, billboard-free retreat from other American highways.
Along the way, more than 100 exhibits, interpretive signs, and marked trails provide archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic insights.
The Trace is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, because there’s something to sniff around every bend! And when it’s time to really stretch your legs, 28 pet friendly hiking and self-guided trails are just steps away.
Appreciating the changing landscapes is another enchanting part of the Trace. From thick forests, to boggy cypress swamps, over 2,000 types of plants live and bloom along the route. The drive is especially lovely during the spring bloom and the colorful fall foliage.
The only overnight accommodations you’ll find on the Natchez Trace are primitive national park and forest campgrounds. However, there are plenty of pet friendly lodging options in the towns and cities just off the Trace. If you’re traveling at one of the more popular times of the year, reservations are recommended.
Many of our national parks see millions of tourists every year, but few visitors spend much time outside the park borders. This is definitely true of Yellowstone National Park, and it makes Paradise Valley the perfect place for a pet friendly trip that avoids crowds!
As the Yellowstone River flows north out the border of the park, the landscape opens up and mountain peaks frame the view. The beauty of the valley beckons you outdoors, as the river tumbles over perfectly worn stones. And there are plenty of activities to choose from!
The Yellowstone is a world-class fly fishing river with many access points along it’s shores. Wildlife viewing is always exciting in this part of the country, with antelope, big horn sheep, bison, elk, mule deer, and white-tailed deer often seen from the roads. And the hiking is spectacular, with the Gallatin National Forest offering spectacular pet friendly trails for both serious hikers and those just out for a stroll in nature.
Between privately-owned and national forest campgrounds, finding a place to pitch your tent isn’t too difficult here. And Gardiner and Livingston both have several pet friendly hotel options. If you’re willing to drive a bit further, Bozeman offers even more pet friendly lodging.
If there is a Mecca for dogs, it’s Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury. This 150-acre off-leash playground for pups was the vision of artists Stephen and Gwen Huneck. The property has a pond, hiking trails, and a pet friendly art gallery. But the heart of Dog Mountain is the chapel, with its pews carved with dogs on the ends and stained glass windows celebrating the gifts dogs bring to our lives.
Over the years pet lovers have contributed tributes, pictures, letters, and notes to their departed pets, covering the walls several layers deep. The result is a masterpiece beyond description.
Nestled along the banks of the Passumpsic and Moose Rivers, the picturesque town of St. Johnsbury has more bridges than traffic lights. And it makes a perfect base camp for exploring Vermont’s Green Mountains and New Hampshire’s White Mountains.
If you get a clear day, be sure to take the drive up Mount Washington. At 6,288 feet, it’s the highest peak in the Northeastern United States.
The Fairbanks Inn in St. Johnsbury offers pet friendly rooms with a $25 per night pet fee, and there are many camping options in the area.
We hope this gives you some ideas for places you can take your pets to avoid the crowds and enjoy a relaxing getaway. If you have some favorite destinations for off-the-beaten-path pet friendly trips that you don’t mind sharing, please leave a comment below!
When we launched GoPetFriendly sixteen years ago, our goal was to make it easy for people to travel with their pets. Perhaps you remember what it was like back then … when finding places to stay and things to do with your pets was HARD.
It wasn’t that the idea of taking your pets with you on vacation was a new concept. Some people had been doing it for years. But they were the exception. Most people believed that traveling with a pet was extravagant, or weird, or just too difficult.
Pet Travel Gained Acceptance
Things certainly have changed! Perhaps creating GoPetFriendly helped sparked a shift in thinking. But, over the years, millions of pet lovers have visited the site to plan trips with their furry family members, and that absolutely delights me!
Eventually, as more people began traveling with their pets, businesses recognized the opportunity. Soon hotels, restaurants, and even entire cities began touting the fact that they were pet friendly. They added pet policies and pet friendly directories to their websites. They splashed it on billboards. And hung signs in their windows.
Walk around most cities these days and you’re likely to find as many businesses that are pet friendly as those that aren’t. Maybe even more! It’s exactly what we hoped for when we started the site.
And it means there’s not as much need for GoPetFriendly’s directory of pet friendly businesses.
Things Change … And So Do We
As the world began embracing pet travel, we changed, too. After twelve fantastic years in the motorhome, we’re happily settled in Bisbee, Arizona. (It’s very pet friendly, if anyone is looking for a fun vacation destination!)
With all the time I’d spent driving the RV suddenly freed up, I went back to school. Two months ago, I completed a certificate program in AutoCAD (the software designers, drafters, and architects use to draw building plans). I also picked up several courses in residential construction while I was there. It was a blast!
Best first day of school EVER! Cochise College Residential Construction Program
It wasn’t clear where all of these courses would take me at the time. It was just fun to learn more about things that had always fascinated me. And while I was focusing on homework and exams, the online world where GoPetFriendly exists was changing dramatically.
Technology Makes A Leap
You’d have to be living under a rock to have missed the recent advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Admittedly, I have concerns about how it will impact humanity. On the other hand, I also remember seeing a self-checkout at the grocery store for the first time. When I turned and swore to Rod that I’d never use one, he replied, “We might be a little young to stop adopting new technology.” Of course, he was right. Though I still use the self-checkout sparingly.
But the fact that AI is already changing how people plan trips is undeniable. The number of human beings landing on GoPetFriendly has dropped significantly during the past year. Why spend your time hunting for options when typing a simple request will get the answer?
Seriously, how convenient is that?! Of course, you still have to verify that the information provided is correct. But you’d have to confirm the pet policies found on GoPetFriendly, too!
So — as they say — all good things come to an end.
It’s clear that there’s now an even easier way to plan trips with pets. So we’re shutting down the directory of pet friendly places on GoPetFriendly at the end of the month. It served its purpose, and it will free up time for something new!
What about the blog?
We’re keeping the blog in place for now. Partially because it’s home to the millions of memories we made with Ty and Buster. But also because it’s not something AI can do better. Our paws-on-the-ground research, though a bit dated, still has value. Hopefully it will continue to inspire more people to travel with their pets. And, who knows? Maybe I’ll post occasionally, if I find something especially interesting.
What’s Next?
Several years ago, Rod and I bought a 3-acre lot on a mountaintop in southern Colorado. When we found a fantastic house for sale in Bisbee and decided not to build a home here, the dream of building on that lot started taking shape.
Suddenly, everything I was learning in my classes became useful! And months of research went into finding the best way to build on a slope, in a remote location, where summer only lasts for a few months … and winter can be brutal.
We’re planning to break ground in May — depending on the weather, of course. The panelized house will be delivered in June, and a crew will complete the exterior of the home. Then we’ll take over, doing the parts we can, and hiring sub-contractors to do what we can’t.
My Sketch Up drawing of what the house will look like.
Join Us!
I know many of you reading this post have been with us for years. The fact that you’re still here amazes me. I’m truly touched by the friendships we’ve made. And I hope you’ll join us on this next adventure!
I’ve launched a YouTube channel to share our progress. The first video went up yesterday, explaining why we chose a prefab home. And I’ll be posting a new video every week. And at the very end of each one, I’m including a little “treat” especially for my GoPetFriendly peeps.
Warning: The video is not good! But you long-timers will remember that the first blog posts I wrote weren’t good either. Everything improves with practice.
