The best days usually include the three B’s; my backyard, my bone and my best friend, Mom! But my all-time favorite day was a day in the rolling hills; in wonderful wine country. Only mom can vouch for the wine (she wouldn’t even give me a lick!), but I’m taking a little trip down memory lane and bringing you with me. These are my 4 tips to make the most of a doggy date day in wine country.
- Find Pet Friendly Wineries (There are so many!)
There are so many amazing vineyards that welcome us furry friends. A little bit of research and you’ll find the top picks. My fave is Dutch Henry Winery, rated #1 in Napa Valley in the California Dog Lover’s Companion Book. But there are so many wonderful choices, don’t limit yourself to just one. Choose wineries that allow your pup to accompany you in the tasting room, it makes for a much more enjoyable experience for you both! - Eat Your Heart Out
If you’ve had your fill of wine (Mom would say that’s not possible!) and want a bite to eat, there are quite a few pup-friendly patios in the area. Bonus if the restaurant has treats for us four-legged friends, too. Just a little tip, guests drop food on the patio on the regular, so keep your eye out for a little snack! Howard’s Station Cafe in Occidental has a doggie menu reserved just for pups, so it’s my number one restaurant pick in wine country. - Paw-some Off-Leash Dog Parks
Sometimes us pups just need to run. Wine country has several of the nicest off-leash dog parks; at least 10 worth visiting depending on where you’re staying. If you’re looking for the biggest, Rocky Memorial Dog Park boasts 7.83 acres (not all fenced) to burn off energy. If you worry about your little pup in a park filled with big dogs, Ragle Ranch Regional Park caters to small dogs (up to 30 lbs) an hour each day; from 11 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday, and from 3 to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. - Beach Bummin’
A trip to wine country wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the ocean. Stop at one of the many pet-friendly beaches on the Pacific, go for a day-hike, or if you’re feeling brave, bring your pup on a dog friendly canoe rental ride.
We would love to see photos of your visit to wine country, Max-ka-tears! Share them on Instagram @oneupmax. Have another favorite dog-friendly vacation? We would love to hear it!
Ears Truly,
One Up Max