Are You Considering a Dog?

Have you been thinking about getting a dog for a while now, but you are uncertain which dog to choose? If this applies to you, then you need to research and decide which type of canine would make the best addition to your family. A huge benefit of going with a dog that is purebred is that you can be certain about the dog’s attributes as far as appearance, size, temperament, and care needs. Knowing how you dog will behave and look as it matures will be an instrumental factor in your decision-making process.

Your Canine and You

People tend to forget all reason when they are selecting puppies. This statement seems even more true when children are included in the puppy selection. Even so, it is best to be knowledgeable before choosing your dog because the more you know; the better prepared you will be when you actually have the pet at home. Knowing all you can is important not only when it comes to choosing your specific breed but also when you’re deciding where to obtain the dog. It is highly recommended that you thoroughly research before purchasing your canine. Dogs are lifelong acquisitions; not temporary appliances.

When you are doing your research, make sure that you remain honest. You may love that beautiful Collie with the gorgeous coat, but will you have the time to care for that coat every single day? Perhaps you would do better with a dog with fewer grooming needs. Sure, you love that beautiful Golden Retriever, but will she enjoy living in your small one bedroom apartment? Where will she run and play since you do not have a private yard? You will need to answer questions such as these when you explore your options and make plans for being a good pet owner and a good neighbor.

Are you ready for the responsibility of having a dog?

Having a dog requires more work than caring for a goldfish. Take the time to chat with breeders about the needs of the dogs, and do not hesitate to ask them questions. Conscientious breeders will gladly share their experiences and knowledge.

Finding the Right Breeder

These same breeders are responsible and seriously care about the canines they breed and raise. They make it a top priority to breed dogs who are in the best shape mentally and physically. It is from these highly-regarded individuals that you want to buy your puppies; this suggestion cannot be over emphasized. When you have chosen a breeder, screen that person or company. You should request to see either the dam or sire of the puppy you are purchasing. You should also pay attention to how all the canines in the breeder’s care respond to their “pack leader” and to you. Are the puppies happy and friendly or skittish and fearful? Any decent breeder will be checking you out as well to ensure their puppies are going to good homes.

The Financial Expense

You have to think about more than just the buying price when it comes to the financial expense you will be incurring when you get a puppy. You will need to add in funds for all the supplies and maintenance that make up good care for your pet; these are items such as food, collars, leashes, toys, and preventative health care such as vaccinations. Before you buy that adorable puppy, make sure you can afford to give him or her the life they deserve.

As a responsible pet owner, you will have to be prepared to take care of all your dog’s health needs for its entire life span. Of course, you will have to pay for things like shots and physicals, but you should also be prepared for unexpected illnesses and accidents because sadly they do happen. A review of your financial state would also include your ability to meet all of your pet’s financial needs.

The Importance of Obedience Training

Since a dog who does not behave well is an issue for everyone who lives with you or near you, obedience training is very important. First of all, you have to deal with a pooch that does not listen, and your neighbors may even be concerned about their own families if your dog gets out of hand. When your dog is well-trained, it represents the entire dog community in a positive light. Even more, when a person has a dog who is well-behaved, that person comes across as being someone who is indeed a good and responsible pet owner.

All over the world and especially on the Internet people are wondering if their dogs can get the flu. Just as humans can contract the illness, dogs can get it too. There are several reasons why dogs may begin to cough. Many times, constant sneezing and coughing can be the predecessors of a nose that will not stop running.  These symptoms could be caused by allergies. When the allergen is eliminated, the dog’s symptoms will disappear.

Often people will mistake flu in a dog with kennel cough, but they are not the same medical issue. Bordetella, a bacterium, causes kennel cough, and the condition is easily spread. Typically, canines obtain this illness in shelters and kennels. Cough medicines and antibiotics will usually accelerate a dog’s recovery.
While kennel cough has been around for a very long time, dog flu has just more recently become commonplace. It was first documented in Florida among greyhounds that were used at dog tracks. Symptoms of dog flu include coughing, fever, and in some cases, pneumonia and a runny nose.

Since the dog flu has only been around for a short term, the majority of canines have not been able to build up immunity to the virus responsible for the illness. Normally, animals are born resistant to certain types of medical conditions, but dogs do not have genetic resistance to the flu. Luckily, most canines only get a mild flu and quickly recover within a few days.

The dog flu is spread among dogs in parks, shelters, kennels, and in other areas where dogs come into contact with each other. Pretty much any dog that makes contact with the flu virus will get the illness. Only five percent of those who catch it will get the most severe form of the illness.

A number of canines who have dog flu will not exhibit any symptoms, but for a week, they can be carriers of the virus. No direct contact is needed to spread dog flu. As the condition is present in discharges that come from the respiratory system, the virus is air borne and travels on its own.

There are many medical issues which can cause a dog to vomit. It can be a catalyst as simple as a change in diet or a bending of the intestines. Dog owners who know about the frequent causes of vomiting will be better prepared to take care of their pets. They will know how to treat their dogs at home as well as when to take them to a veterinarian for more serious conditions.

An irregular bout of vomiting does not mean your pet is seriously ill. When it does not last long, vomiting is simply the way a body tries to eliminate something unsuitable. In the case of a dog, this unsuitable substance or material could be a swallowed toy, a bad piece of meat, etc.

If the item does not rest comfortably in a dog’s stomach, then it will cause unrest, and the stomach will take action to heal itself by vomiting. Upset stomachs have been identified as the main cause of individual occurrences of dogs vomiting.

Vomiting and diarrhea in a dog can be induced by a sudden change in the type of food the dog is fed and by the eating of new treats and table scraps. Changing any component of a dog’s diet is liable to produce similar, unpleasant results that occur as a result of a stomach upset.

In a great number of situations, vomiting that occurs because of an upset stomach can be cured at home, but when it lasts for a while and begins to wear away at the dog’s health, a trip to the veterinarian is in order.

When a dog has a stomach upset, the best course of treatment is to not give him food for a whole day. At the same time, he should be encouraged to drink water so that he will not dehydrate. After the twenty-four hours have passed, you can offer your pet a tiny, bland meal, like rice and boiled chicken. Once the dog is able to keep this food inside, you can slowly reintroduce his everyday food back into his meal plan.

Ear infections that occur in dogs can be caused by an assortment of causes. In many cases, they are the result of water in a dog’s ear during a bath. Water that remains in a canine’s inner ear can cause growth changes and imbalances.

Hormonal irregularities and genetic disorders are also capable of producing ear infections in dogs. Case in point, a condition called hypothyroidism can produce an ear infection in pooches. This can be treated with a prescription called Soloxine which can be obtained from a vet.

Ear infections are more likely to occur in certain dog breeds. For instance, dog breeds that have excessively floppy ears are at greater risk of getting an ear infection than dog breeds with ears which are not floppy.

Yeast and bacterial infections are the 2 main suppliers of ear infections in dogs. In minute amounts, both yeast and bacteria can be found in a canine’s ears, but if the amount of either or both grow excessive, then an infection might arise. Each infection will create distinct symptoms.

Dogs with a yeast ear infection will typically shows signs of dryness, itching, and scaling in and around the ears. This condition may expand to other parts of a pooch’s face. Ear infections caused by yeast overgrowths are often accompanied by a chalky odor; this is a factor that may allow you to distinguish it as the causative agent of the ear situation.

Ear infections caused by bacteria show themselves through swelling and pain, redness, and a large or unusual discharge coming from the ears. Perhaps the largest sign of a bacterial ear infection is a strong odor and a large amount of ear wax.

There are many medical treatments available for canine ear infections. The vet will choose one based on the cause of the condition. Treatment methods include but are not limited to such prescription medications as the antibiotic Cephalexin and Mometamax (primarily used for ear infections caused by yeast) and Otomax ear drops. Temeral-P and Epi-Otic Flush may also be considered for treatment of an ear infection.

Canine flu is transmitted from one dog to another through sneezing or coughing and is a virus which is spread through the air. Additionally, the flu can be dispersed through nose secretions, and it can be contracted from contact with infected surfaces.

Signs of dog flu normally become evident within two to five days of exposure to the virus. Canines that have the flu are contagious for up to ten days.

Symptoms of dog flu include:

* Repeated sneezing
* Chills
* Coughing that lasts for one to three weeks
* A hacking, dry cough
* Shallow and quick breathing with some difficulty
* Making choking or gagging noises after vomiting
* Watery, draining eyes
* Depressed personality and behavior
* Lack of appetite
* Severe lethargy and lack of energy
* Dehydration (and dry skin as a result of)
* A fever over 105 degrees Fahrenheit
* A thick, green or yellow nasal discharge
* Pneumonia (or some other type of bacterial infection)

Kennel cough and dog flu are different.

Many people confuse symptoms of kennel cough with dog flu, but they are two separate conditions. While kennel cough is caused by the presence of bacteria, dog flu occurs as the result of a virus. A racking, dry cough accompanies kennel cough, and dog flu is identified with a wet cough. Canines rarely die as a result of dog flu.

In general, most dogs recover from this illness quickly. There are a few who perish when the flu is associated with other infections. Older dogs and those which are in poor health are more likely to succumb to other infections which make them helpless.

If your dog is coughing that does not mean that he has dog flu. It could simply be a cold or a very mild flu that can be eliminated with some type of cough medicine. In order to avoid severe infections, any mild infection should be treated with an antibiotic as soon as it becomes evident.

Dogs with very high fevers need hospitalization and medical treatment, including intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration. The veterinarian can do tests to make the diagnosis of dog flu.

Do not take chances when you hang out in public with your dog. Never allow your pet to share eating or drinking dishes with other pets. If your dog displays any hint of a cough, keep him away from other animals until the cough disappears.

There are some very fortunate dogs that in addition to going on vacations with their families also get to enjoy certain luxuries on their getaways. These are the pampered pooches that can order from their own room service menus and have doggie massages in their hotel rooms. They also receive welcome gifts as soon as they enter the hotels.

The majority of individuals, who begin to think of hotels that are incredibly pet friendly, instantly see pictures of European hotels in their minds. Perhaps these images need to be altered a bit because over the years, hotels in the United States have become a great deal more welcoming to pets, and many of them, hotels both small and large in size, now offer pets the same amenities as those offered to their human owners.

Over fifteen million Americans went on trips with their pets in 2010.

According to a recent survey, sixty-five percent of US families contain pets. This is a record number of pet owners.

Over fifteen million Americans went on trips with their pets in 2010. Eight and a half million of these people stayed at pet friendly lodging establishments three or more times that same year. Because of the large number of individuals traveling with their pets, hotels are increasing the number of pet perks they offer, and this includes everything from clean-up bags to dog spas and yoga classes.

A great number of these canine loving hotels do more than merely put up with dogs; they treat them like citizens with first-rate services and amenities like those offered to furry creatures at the W Hotel chain.

Hotels such as these give pet requests the same level of customer service as valued human requests. Not only are these luxury providers offering the usual canine amenities like dog bowls and bed, but they are also supplying dogs with real 5 star experiences.

Dogs who enjoy nature and the mountains will really appreciate the doggie hikes that occur twice a day at the Bachelor Gulch, Colorado Ritz Carlton; it does not hurt that these fun travels end with a bath spritz and a private, hotel room massage.

The vaccinations your dog needs is determined by the dog’s age, breed, diet, exercise, surroundings, and his or her interactions with other animals. Making sure your dog gets the correct vaccinations is just as important as making sure the dog stays up to date on his vaccination schedule. This will help your pet’s immune system so that it can both fight and prevent infections.

Your dog could suffer from an allergic reaction if a foreign substance finds its way into your dog’s body. The majority of canines do well with vaccinations as long as they receive the correct vaccinations on schedule. If your dog is unhealthy, it could become sick after receiving vaccinations.

There are two types of vaccines, core and non-core. A core vaccine is one that is given to the majority of pets in a certain area. A non-core vaccination is one that is prescribed depending upon each dog’s unique situation. Your veterinarian can tell you which vaccinations are best for your dog. Here are some of the most frequently used core vaccines and information about the diseases they try to prevent.

The first vaccination is Adenovirus type-1 and 2. Type one tries to prevent infectious hepatitis, and the second kind works to prevent respiratory infections. Both of these vaccinations are usually required by law.

Bordetella (B. bronchiseptica) has been linked to kennel cough. Parainfluenza has been linked to kennel cough in dogs, too.

Parvovirus and Coronavirus are both intestinal diseases that can have fatal consequences. The vaccination for Parvovirus is typically mandatory by law.

Kidney damage in canines is sometimes the result of a bacterial infection called by Leptospirosis.

Canine Distemper is a widespread disease and is often fatal. Dog rabies generally always results in death, and the law requires a preventive vaccination for the condition.

As a cat owner, you are responsible for the safety and health of your pet. Heartgard for cats is a product that we are going to delve into here, Heartgard is a medication intended to prevent heartworm,a disease that can affect your cat (and other pets) and have very serious consequences.

One of the most appealing factors about Heartgard for cats is that this product only has to be taken once a month (twice in some cases) and your cat will be fully protected from the evil heartworm, guaranteed. This gives you a the relief and the peace of mind that your cat will live a healthy and fun life. Heartgard is one of the most respected cat medications out there today, and millions use it to protect their feline.

Heartgard for cats comes in chewable form, and the cat really do love it. That is one of the reasons why Heartgard remains so popular, as well as it’s effectiveness of course.

Is Heartworm dangerous for your pet, and do you really need Heartgard for cats? The answer is yes, you especially need a solution to prevent your cat from getting this disease. In the worst case scenario, it could make your cat actually die, as heartworms live inside of the heart. The large vessels needed to pump blood and help your cat live long, get clogged with these worms. Some can get up to 12 inches long, and at that point it’s an extreme danger to a cat’s health.

In conclusion, there is no doubt about it – you need to protect your cat from heartworms. While there may be different options, it’s good to go with a trusted solution that works, and that so many people are already using. That is Heartgard for cats, and it’s available online.

Monterey, California is a great spot for pets. For pet-friendly hotels, you have Best Western, Motel  6, and The Hyatt Regency. The city has a vast selection of outdoor dining spots that allow dogs, including El Palomar Mexican Restaurant, First Awakenings, and Indian Summer.

If you’re the outdoorsy type, you’ll have a blast bringing your dog to Monterey’s beaches and trails. Monterey State Beach stretches from Highway 1 down to Fisherman’s Wharf and extends to the scenic Monterey Recreation Trail. Asilomar State Beach in Pacific Grove also welcomes leashed dogs. Lastly, there’s Jack’s Peak County Park, including 8.5 miles of hiking trails.

But that’s not all. You can also bring your dog on a 45-minute boat tour of Monterey Bay, or on a whale-watching adventure. If you head to Ventana Vineyards, you can bring your leashed dog on the patio and the grounds. End the day with a trip to Chateau le Paws Pet Boutique where you can buy pet bakery items and have your dog groomed. They also offer doggie day care, pet spa services, and PAWS limousine service—in case you can’t drop him off yourself. A perfect trip for pet R&R!

Lake Tahoe are filled with vacationing tourists during the summer and winter. Many of these individuals bring their pets, and lucky for them, Lake Tahoe is a vacationing Mecca that caters to families with pets.

One of the many pet friendly hotels is The Seven Seas Inn. Seven Seas is within easy walking distance of a private beach and a casino. The inn permits all kinds of pets to stay and play and even has a fenced in backyard for the pets that need workouts.  What’s so inviting to pet owners about the Seven Seas is that the lodging only charges $10 for the entire get-away; there is no daily rate. Your pet can even enjoy doggie biscuits from the front office.

At 1227 Emerald Bay Road, families with pets might want to consider the High Country Lodge. Activities for humans are plentiful and include horseshoes, volleyball, and a Jacuzzi to help you wind down from you busy day. While you are resting, your pet can get his own exercise on the leash run. The High Country Inn charges $10 a night for pets, but it’s more than worth it to keep your best friend happy and active.

There are three other pet friendly hotels that stand out above the crowd in Lake Tahoe. One of them is the Alpenrose Inn. This hotel can be found 4074 Pin Road in South Shore, Lake Tahoe and permits dogs to stay for $10 per night. If you’re looking for a quiet, exclusive, pet friendly getaway then the Alpenrose is perfect. The hotel only has 19 rooms so neither you nor your pet will be treated like room numbers, and the beach is only a 5 minute walk away and the dog park, ten minutes by car.

The Heavenly Inn at 930 Pine Street in South Shore is a home away from home. Dogs are warmly greeted for $15 per night (this is per dog) and their owners as well (of course, at additional cost). Unfortunately, there are no special facilities at the inn for your dog, but there is a park directly across the street. What a great place for both you and your dog to get some much needed exercise!

The last recommend place is Holly’s Place. Holly’s place can be found at 1201 Rufus Allen Blvd and is located on two beautiful acres. There are cabins throughout the property, and there is even a doggie pond for the dog. Never fear getting something yucky on your shoes; poop stations throughout the compound are conveniently located for all guests. Forget your dog’s bed? Rent one for $15 a night. A limited number of cats are allowed to stay each night in a special cat studio. Check with the hotel for availability.

There are so many great, pet friendly accommodations in Lake Tahoe. Hopefully, this review will help you find the right one for your and your pet. Before selecting a hotel, please do adequate research online and by calling the hotel to make sure the hotel can meet your needs.

If only dogs knew how to talk, then they may have already told their owners where to go, and one of their top favorites will definitely be the Big Apple. You no longer have to worry about leaving your pet unattended when you treat yourself out of town. New York City is definitely the perfect destination and haven for dogs and dog owners alike. It is the “pet-friendliest” place in the world, where dogs get nothing but the best.

In fact, New York is filled with an array of hotels that accommodate pets, and there is at least one such hotel in every block. You also do not have to worry if you fail to pack treats for your four-legged buddy. SoHo Grand Hotel provides a custom-made menu featuring various treats your dog will surely enjoy. Dogs and dog lovers will surely enjoy staying at Tribeca Grand Hotel or SoHo Hotel with their premium service and amenities that cater to both the guests and the pets.

London NYC Hotel, The Carlyle, 70 Park Avenue Hotel, Waldorf Towers, Loews Regency New York and Hilton Times Square are also good picks when it comes to excellent pet accommodations in the Big Apple.

The fun doesn’t stop there. Of course, you and your dog did not visit New York to stay on the couch the whole day. Your trip would not be complete without you hitting the sights and sounds the City has to offer. You don’t have to worry because you and your dog will have a lot of options that ca fill up your itinerary! There is a long list of possible places and activities that you can try with your pooch. First, you may exercise and warm up for a long day ahead with your pooch at various dog-runs in various strategic locations around NYC.

Additionally, you may go shopping with your dog at the Tiffany’s, Bloomingdale’s and Bergdorf Goodman’s as long as they don’t bite, that is. After shopping, you may drop at Garrison Salon for a quick makeover. If the stars are conniving with you and your dog then maybe he, too, could also have a makeover to match your new look.

When it comes to perfect gastronomic treats for you and your furry friend, you may stop over at any of the restaurants that open their doors for dogs. You don’t have to worry about finding one as New York is bursting at the seams with such restaurants all over the place. You may try Chumleys, The Cherry Tavern and Fat Cat Billiards.

Did you know that Disney is now pet friendly? Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida opened its first pet hotel for cats and dogs. The new 50.000 square foot Best Friends Pet Resort opens August 27, 2010, and they are already taking reservations for their air-conditioned rooms, “VIP” suites and private outdoor yards. Now, the entire family can enjoy Walt Disney World.

Best Friends Pet Care at Walt Disney World®
2510 Bonnet Creek Parkway
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Phone: 877-493-9738
Fax: 203-840-5266

The Best Friends Pet Care resort spans 50,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space. 10,000 feet of this space is reserved solely as a play area so dogs can run and have fun outdoors. There is also a private dog park where pet owners can come and spend quality time with their best friends while on vacation.

Just like Walt Disney, the pet resort offers a variety of room types. Some rooms have air-conditioning units while other rooms are indoor/outdoor combination, and allow pets the best of both worlds. For the A-List pet, Best Friends also have four VIP suites with televisions, luxurious bedding, and private, outdoor play areas.

You probably want to make your reservation for your pet early as the hotel has a maximum occupancy of 300 pets. The cats vacation in “Kitty City”, a residence made up of two and four room condos. These condos were built with privacy and comfort in mind so if you have a cat, he can either spend quality time with new friends or hang out alone.

The resort also offers grooming services, pet playgrounds and even caregivers who will read your pet a bedtime story. No wonder they call Disney the happiest place on Earth!

The Bay Area is a huge draw for people and pets alike. For starters, there are over 20 off-leash dog parks, including the ever-popular Golden Gate Park, Delores Park in the Mission, and Alamo Square Park. Just like the different neighborhoods, each spot has its own unique feel.  Additionally, many shops and outdoor restaurants throughout the city welcome your leashed pet. From Baja Fresh Mexican Grill downtown to Café Trieste in North Beach, you have your choice of cuisines at dozens of establishments.

San Francisco Off-leash Dog Parks:

Fort Funston Dog Area
500 Skyline Blvd at John Muir Dr., San Francisco, CA 94101
(Off Highway 35 – south of Ocean Beach)

Eureka Valley Park
19th St. and Collingwood, San Francisco, CA 94114
(East of baseball diamond)

Duboce Park Dog Play Area
500 Duboce Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94117

Crissy Field Park
Mason Street/Marina, San Francisco, CA 94129
(Bordered by 16th Street & Roosevelt)

Corona Heights Park
199 Museum Way, San Francisco, CA 94114
(Bordered by 16th Street & Roosevelt)

Alta Plaza Park
2300 Scott Street, San Francisco, CA 94115
(Jackson St. & Scott St.)

Alamo Square Park
1000 Fulton St. San Francisco, CA 94117
(Bordered by Scott, Hayes, Pierce & Fulton)

Bernal Heights
Folsom St & Bernal Heights Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94110
(Unfenced dog area is the top of the hill bounded by Bernal Heights Blvd.)

If you visit in the summer check out the San Francisco Giants Dog Days of Summer at AT&T Park. The 8-year old tradition which takes place in August starts with a dog parade on the field. After that, you’re welcome to sit in the bleachers with your four-legged sports fan.

As for hotels, once again—be prepared to make a tough choice! You have the historic Argonaut Hotel in popular tourist destination Fisherman’s Wharf. Then there’s the stylish Marriott in Union Square, and many budget-friendly options, including Best Western and Holiday Inn. During your stay, be sure to take a waterfront carriage ride and head over to wine country in Napa. After all, it’s not all about your dog.

You don’t want to go on break and have to leave your pet behind. Usually you have to though because most resorts don’t accept pets.

At Chame Bay in Panama, things are different. Chame Bay encourages pet owners to bring their furry friends and is the first resort to openly advertise its pet hotel. Your pet can also enjoy the fun and sun of Panama.

Chame Bay is located on a distinct peninsula on Punta Chame in Panama. It is surrounded by beautiful, white beaches and ocean blue water and is the perfect place for you, your family, and your pet to enjoy a fantastic adventure in fantastic Central America.

Why should your cat or dog be boarded in a kennel or left at home with a strange caretaker when he can enjoy a pampered life, including spa treatments at Chame Bay? The trained animal staff has one purpose in mind to care for your pet by giving him the VIP treatment worthy of a British Royal.

If your dog is not too busy getting its nails done, perhaps he might walk with you on the pristine white Chame Bay Beach. Playing games like Frisbee and Fetch, as the waves rush around you, are such fun. Your cat may just enjoy chillaxin in your lap as you two look out at the deep blue sea. No matter what you do at Chame Bay, you’re bound to have the time of your life in first class accommodations worthy of five-star recognition.

Luxurious Ocean View Rooms and Grand Premier Rooms provide a stunning voice of the ocean and a life of opulence you will never forget. All the rooms have doors that can be easily folded and allow you to view nature at its finest all day long. Because Chame is for you and your pet, there are no worries about what your pet can and cannot do to interfere with your pet friendly vacation.

Chame Bay is more than just a vacation; it’s also a fun adventure for you and your pet. Enjoy this one of a kind experience.

You will find all the reasons in bringing your pet hound the next time you visit Yosemite California for a holiday.

For one, there are 27 cabins within the area that are pet friendly. The only thing that you need to do is to make your reservations before your scheduled visit. It is also essential to note that most vacation homes in Yosemite California allow up to 2 pets at a time.

Yosemite National Park provides for one of the best hiking and exploration activities for you and your furry buddy.

It features pet friendly hiking trails and roads. However, you have to be aware of the rules and restrictions that are in force inside the National Park. This must be strictly followed for the protection of your pet and the Yosemite wildlife. Pets should be on leash and must be attended to at all times.

Unpaved hiking trails are off limits to pets except for those along the Four Mile trail and Meadow Loop along Wawona, the Old Big Oak Flat Road that runs along Hazel Green Creek and Hogdorn Meadow and Carlson Road.

Pets are also not allowed in public buildings and shuttle buses as well as in meadows, beaches and the backcountry. Your range of choices when it comes to pet friendly camping places includes Crane Flat, Bridaveil Creek, Upper Pines, Hodgdon Meadow and Yosemite Creek.

The pet friendly cabins rental in Yosemite National Park have the essential amenities and facilities including telephone and Internet connection, satellite TV system, gas grill, hot tub, dishwasher, heat system and modern kitchen appliances such as microwave, essential house wares, toasters and coffeemakers.

If you are planning to cover the hiking trails where pets are not allowed, then you can leave your pet in the kennel that is located in close proximity to the Yosemite Valley Horse Stables. Don’t forget to bring with you the current registration and proof of immunization of your pet when you visit Yosemite National Park as these documents have to be presented before your pet can be admitted in the kennel.

The possibilities in Cape Cod are endless. Let’s start with lodging. You and your pet have dozens of pet-friendly hotel options, including Comfort Inn and Quality Inn. If you prefer more intimate accommodations, there’s the The Painted Dog in Eastham, just minutes from the water and the 26-mile Cape Cod rail trail.

Four Gables Cottages in Provincetown boasts a variety of units with yards and sundecks, ideal for playing and relaxing. Of course, you can always forgo the room and camp out instead. There are several great spots in Bourne, Brewster, Dennisport, East Falmouth, and Sandwich.

Whichever spot you choose, you’ll likely you’ll spend very little time in your room. Cape Cod has a number of beaches and parks where you and your furry friend can run free. You can also take your pet with you on a harbor or whale-watching cruise—the perfect Cape Cod activity! If your dog’s been on his best behavior, end the day with a trip to Hot Diggity or Paws and Whiskers DogBakery and Pawticulars to get him a reward for his efforts. Nothing caps a great vacation like a new toy to show off at home.

Orlando isn’t just a magical place for kids—it’s also a perfect location for pets. The city offers a vast selection of pet-friendly hotels conveniently located near Disney World and Universal Studios. If you’re heading out to the theme parks, go ahead and take your little buddy with you.

Walt Disney World is currently working on a luxury pet resort and will open in September 2010 that will offer dog and cat boarding, day care, grooming services, and a doggy day camp. Pets will also enjoy luxury suites with raised bedding, activities like nature walks and play groups, and services ranging from ice cream treats to bedtime stories. Talk about a luxurious experience!

After you’re done with rides, games, and junk food, you may want to take your dog somewhere for a little exercise. You’ll find several leash-free dog parks, and just in case anything happens, a large assortment of pet hospitals.  For more ideas to show your pet a doggone good time, check out The Florida Dog Lover’s Companion—a wonderful resource for exploring Florida on four legs.

Who says your pet-friendly travel options are limited to land? Transatlantic Cruises welcomes pets on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 sailings between Southampton and New York. The “Pets on Deck” program includes fresh-baked biscuits, premium quality pet food, a choice of bed and blankets, toys, a personalized commemorative cruise card, and even a pet coat with the QM2 logo. How fancy! You’ll get the royal treatment, too, as you enjoy lavish accommodations, fine dining, and spa treatments.

Although you can’t bring your pet in your room, you can trust the kennel master will take wonderful care of him. At any time you can take him for walks in designated and indoor and outdoor areas and enjoy a little play time. And here’s an interesting perk—the package includes a complimentary portrait of you and your pet.

It costs $300–500 to bring your pet onboard, and he must be microchipped and vaccinated for rabies with satisfactory ratings on blood tests. Additionally, you must have your dog treated for ticks and tapeworms within 48 hours of check-in. Since there are only 12 kennels on-board you’re best to make a reservation as soon as possible.

Assuming your dog can hold his liquor—eh, water—Vegas is as much fun for pets as it is for people! Now is the perfect time to plan a trip to Sin City with the annual Strut Your Mutt event coming up in November.  This day of fun includes dog contests, pet care demonstrations, doggy theater, agility courses, and more.

Outdoor attractions abound in Vegas. First, there’s Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort Historic Park, a great draw if you’re interested in learning the city’s history. Then there’s Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, located in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. The entrance fee is $6 per car—a small price for access to 520 acres of natural beauty.

You can also bring your pup on a strip tour using this walking route. Dogs can’t go inside the buildings or attractions on the strip, but he’ll get a kick out of the lights and excitement!

If your pet still has energy after that, visit one of several off-leash dog parks and then stop by the Three Dog Bakery for a treat. You can’t spend all your time with Fido, though. Not when Criss Angel and the Mirage are calling! Leave him in the Animal Inn, where your pet can enjoy some pampering and socialization.

Rest your head at one of several La Quinta Inn and Motel 6 locations, or step it up a notch at Westin Las Vegas Hotel, Casino & Spa.

According to the Carmel website, there’s an entire social order of dogs and their owners that show up on the leash-free beach at designated times to chat and cavort.  The town caters to canines in every way possible.  Numerous hotels welcome dogs, including Cypress Inn, partially owned by animal-lover Doris Day. You can also stay at Happy Landing Inn, a quaint spot with antique-filled rooms; The Tradewinds at Carmel, a luxury boutique hotel; or one of several other dog-friendly inns.

Many shopkeepers welcome your dog into their stores, offering smiles and biscuits. The Carmel Plaza shopping center even has a “Fountain of Woof”—a dogs-only drinking fountain.  After taking your leashed dog on a two-hour walking tour through secret pathways, hidden courtyards, and lush gardens, you’ll probably work up an appetite. Carmel boasts more than a dozen outdoor restaurants that welcome dogs.

If you visit in July, you’ll enjoy the Carmel Bach Festival, a 60-year-old tradition of classical music and festivity. The event runs for three weeks, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to join in the fun. Carmel also has a couple theaters and a symphony—for humans only, unfortunately.

Carmel-by-the-sea is a beautiful location, perfect for some R&R with your furry friend.