During the last year, many people began getting feeling the wanderlust for travel, waiting for the national pandemic to finally come to an end and allow for vacations and adventures with their families and friends. Of course, being at home so much, dog lovers were fortunate to have their closest companions with them. Now is a great time to plan a trip with your best canine friend by your side! Here, we will look at some of the best stops for dog lovers on their California road trip, ensuring fun and excitement for both of you. If you are from another country and planning a road trip in California then you need to get an International Driver’s Permit.
Packing For a Dog-Friendly Road Adventure
No matter where you’re traveling in North America, if you’re taking your dog with you, what you pack is very important. Luckily, many manufacturers have pet lovers in mind and offer luggage and hiking or camping gear specially made for dogs. Although traveling with a young puppy can be tough, travel bags and, most importantly, a durable dog harness, can all be purchased for both small dogs or larger breeds.
A harness for dogs is especially crucial if you plan on going on walks, hikes, or want to explore cities and towns with your canine companion by your side. When you do your preliminary packing, be sure that the harness is comfortable for your dog’s size, as the best harness will be appropriately snug across the dog’s chest with adjustable points for security and safety. The best harnesses are lightweight but have a secure buckle for better control that won’t make your dog want to pull and hurt themselves.
In addition, hiking and camping necessities, such as rubber cups and bowls, are just as important, and your pup will need plenty of water when you’re out on the road! It also helps to bring along a good travel book with information on which parks and tourist areas are welcoming to pets.
Dogs and the Great Outdoors
Pet parents will be happy to learn that California is a very dog-friendly place! Many tourist locations are welcoming to canine companions, making it easy to plan a great vacation throughout the state with your whole family (puppy included). Although there are many hotels and restaurants that cater to dog owners, the great outdoors is a wonderful starting point for your pup. Many historic sites, such as Redwood National Park, Death Valley National Park, Yosemite National Park, and countless seaside ports and beaches have special accommodations for your four-legged friends.
Hiking and camping is a perfect idea if you have your pooch with you. Beginning by researching of California’s many gorgeous national parks is a wonderful place to start. At Death Valley National Park, not only are both Twenty Mule Team Canyon Road and Titus Canyon Road great road trails that your family will love for picture-taking purposes, but Stovepipe Wells Village, one of the beautiful lodging spots within Death Valley, is rustic, quaint, and welcomes dogs. Likewise, Death Valley Junction is another gorgeous photo opportunity, and pooches are welcome anywhere outdoors.
If you’re in Northern California, Redwood National Park’s most historic sites allow dogs within the campgrounds, certain beaches (they’re labeled as “dog friendly”), and numerous trails. If this is your first time visiting the redwoods, the park does allow pups but insist upon the famous “BARK” rules: Bag all pet waste, Always keep pets on their leash, Respect area wildlife, and Know where dogs aren’t permitted. However, your pup is allowed in most places! If national parks are up your alley, Yosemite National Park is another one of California’s most historic sites that are welcoming to pooches. Many of the park’s hiking and biking locations are pet-friendly.
Pooches and the Beach
No California adventure would be complete without a trip to the beach. After all those long car rides and backcountry camping, visiting one of California’s many pet-friendly beaches is a perfect cap for your road journey. As one fun suggestion, Huntington Beach even has its own dog park, the Huntington Dog Beach, which has its own scenic dunes and elevation level that’s a good fit for your canine companion to relax and unwind alongside you.
Of course, depending on the time of year, it can get very hot, so proper hydration is crucial for you and your dog. Even a strong dog needs to relax in the shade, which is better for the dog’s skin after hours in the sun, and it’s always best to check ahead of time with the visitor center regarding any restrictions.