Cici and I have put our heads together and come up with THE top 10 inns in California with authentic dogitude…
Whether you enjoy to getaway to the mountains, want to go surfing with your best friend, take Fido and Fluffy to the beach or kayaking, this list has a little something for everyone.
Visit each Website for Very Important Pet packages. Bring your best
friend with you and you will always have a paw-fect time.
1. The Island Hotel, Newport Beach
http://IslandHotel.com (exemplary service, large grassy area, delicious handcrafted bones and pet amenities including in the Spa)
2. Stanford Inn, Mendocino
http://stanfordinn.com (extremely dog and animal friendly, including dining with Fido indoor lobby, delicious sweet potato treats and gourmet vegan cuisine)
3. Inn at Schoolhouse Creek, Little River
http://www.schoolhousecreek.com (wonderful large grassy pet meadow to sniff, explore and roll over on, dog bowls, treats in a doggie jar, dog bed and toy to take home), dogs are welcome to join the afternoon wine and cheese hour
4. Hotel Solamar, San Diego
http://www.hotelsolamar.com/ (excellent concierge and staff customer service, dog bed, dog bowls and treats)
5. Svensgaard Inn, Carmel
http://www.innsbythesea.com/svendsgaard
There is a sparkling pool as well as a grassy courtyard and pet amenities galore including the barking treat jar in the lobby.
6. Blue Whale Inn, Cambria
bluewhaleinn.com (dog lovers delight, across from the ocean, scrumptious dog treats in doggie jar in dining area), dog bed, dog bowls and toy
7. Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort, Huntington Beach
waterfrontresort.com (gorgeous ocean views and dog beach sponsors)
8. Omni Hotel, San Diego
http://www.sandiego.org/listing/Visitors/2330
(excellent concierge and friendly staff customer service to both humans and four footed furry guests
9. Seafoam Lodge, Little River
www.seafoamlodge.com on site boxer dog (Lucy) who loves to play with other dogs…
10. Cottages at Little River
http://www.cottagesatlittlerivercove.com/ on site puppy dog (Tek) who loves to play with other dogs and doggytug toys…
Special Shout-Outs:
Andrea at Navarro Winery in Anderson Valley has real dogitude… they have a new pet recreation area with pet waste bags, dog treats and an on site dog Peccarina, a working dog, who was not supposed to be play with Cici but was very friendly and wagging tail happy and chased and played with her anyway….
http://www.littleriverinn.com/pets/pet-friendly-wineries.php
The Raw Connection in Carmel are now offering Doggytugs for sale, have great customer service and knowledge about healthy raw and grain-free dog foods
Finding Lodging with Real Dog-itude by moi
April 2009 issue of Bay Woof magazine
Traveling with Fido and not sure where to stay? There are many lodging
establishments nowadays that call themselves “pet-friendly,” but some don’t offer much in the way of special amenities. Here are some tips for identifying an inn with authentic dogitude.
Lodgings that make the cut:
Provide dog treats, food and water bowls, dog beds, and other canine amenities;
Provide biodegradable waste bags and conveniently located waste containers;
Offer safe, easy access to a clearly marked and fenced-in grassy area where guests can exercise their dogs;
Make guests feel special with memorable extras, such as dog-friendly outdoor or indoor dining tables; and
Have dog-loving and knowledgeable staff available to answer questions, arrange tours, and recommend local off-leash recreation spots, pet sitters, doggie daycare, pet stores, and vets.
Lodgings that don’t measure up:
Discriminate against certain breeds and sizes of dogs;
Charge exorbitant deposits and non-refundable pet fees;
Use products containing toxic chemicals to clean the rooms, which can affect the health of both owners and pets; and
Don’t offer outdoor areas for dogs or any other special pet amenities.
Finally, what’s the absolute best sign that you and Fido have found your favorite home away from home? A cozy and clean dog pillow by the fire with a fresh bone tucked inside.
Stumble It!
Have dog blog will travel 