Rescues and Adoption Blog

Since we entered the ring in 2011, the DogTrekker founders have dedicated revenue, editorial and promotional support to California shelters, rescue organizations and animal welfare groups. It’s all part of our Leave No Dog Behind mission, which puts pets first—whether we’re helping our readers to plan unforgettable DogCations or building a better world for our furry friends and rescue partners.

Image from Top destination stories of 2023 on DogTrekker

DogTrekker’s official spring/summer event guide is live!

DogTrekker's spring and summer 2025 event guide highlights pup-friendly fundraisers across California. From Pasadena Humane's Wiggle Waggle Walk to the Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash and Woofstock Chico, your participation supports rescue efforts that change animal lives.

DogTrekker’s official spring/summer event guide is live!

DogTrekker's spring and summer 2025 event guide spotlights pup-friendly fundraisers supporting California animal welfare groups. Join walks, costume contests and festivals from Pasadena to Sacramento to Chico, and help fund rescue efforts and medical care that save lives.

Dogs, costumes, kids and fun at DogFest Northwest, Jack London Square, Oakland.

You’ll fall for this season’s dog-friendly events

From adoptathons and wine festivals to corgi getaways and fundraiser galas, these fall dog-friendly events across California promise food, fun and heartwarming moments for pups and the people who love them.

Dog-friendly California destination, photo courtesy of Tahoe Keys Resort

Dog-friendly Lake Tahoe: Why your dog will thank you

Lake Tahoe is a dream for dogs and their people, with pristine beaches, mountain trails and pet-friendly lodging from South Lake to quieter spots like Tahoma. Here's how to plan the perfect Tahoe trip with your pup.

Big dogs love the Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash.

Welcome to spring – and the 2024 event season!

Spring kicks off a packed calendar of dog-friendly events across California, from the Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash to adoption fundraisers, costume contests, and tasting tours. Here are our top picks through mid-summer.

Cooper loved to travel

Cooper the Lab mix lived ten adventure-packed years as an avid DogTrekker, from winery visits in Sonoma to Shirley Canyon hikes at Palisades Tahoe. His owner Niki shares how DogTrekker shaped their travels together.

Happy New Year from DogTrekker!

DogTrekker kicks off 2026 with a look ahead at the coastal walks, mountain trails and welcoming patios waiting for you and your dog across California.

Maya (RIP), DogTrekkerr.com's Barketing Director, walking near the Sacramento River Trail in Redding.

DogTrekker® 15th anniversary

DogTrekker.com celebrates 15 years of helping California dog lovers travel together, supporting animal welfare groups and inspiring millions of readers since launching in June 2011. DogTrekker.com launched 15 years ago, guided by a mission to leave no dog behind -- whether at.

Image from Puptopia Festival returns to Big Bear Lake on DogTrekker

Paw-some events for the dog days of summer

Pup-friendly festivals are popping up across California this summer and fall. From Puptopia in Big Bear to Bark & Meow in Berkeley and winery fundraisers in Napa, these events bring dog lovers together while supporting rescue and animal welfare groups.

Shelter in the Tahoe snow

Tahoe in winter calls for snowy adventures by day and cozy cabin retreats at night. Cedar Glen Lodge, Tahoma Meadows, and Sorensen's Resort all welcome dogs and offer quick access to cross-country ski and snowshoe trails.

In GPS, five pet-friendly hotels are raising the bar

Five Greater Palm Springs hotels go above and beyond for dogs, from The Saguaro's no-fee policy for pets of any size to La Quinta Resort's PAWS program and Westin Mission Hills' on-site adoption partnership with a local shelter.

New for you: DogTrekker’s ulti-mutt spring event guide

Spring brings a packed calendar of dog-friendly events across California, from fun runs and beach festivals to wine tastings and costume parades. Many raise funds for animal welfare organizations, so you and your pup can play while making a positive impact.

San francisco painted lady victorian with dogs all

San Francisco: The ultimate dog-friendly destination

San Francisco is basically Disneyland for dogs. With a rich canine history, off-leash beaches, dog-friendly bars, and famous four-legged residents past and present, the city by the bay has earned its reputation as the ultimate dog town.

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Unlocking the health benefits and energy boost of having dogs in your life

Owning a dog brings real health benefits, from lower blood pressure and better weight management to reduced stress and stronger social connections. Dog owners are four times more likely to meet weekly exercise goals.

Mendocino County wineries warmly welcome dogs

Mendocino County's Anderson Valley is one of the most dog-friendly wine regions in California. Nearly a dozen Highway 128 wineries welcome pups with treats, water bowls, fenced play areas and resident winery dogs.

Borrow a buddy at the Beachcomber Properties, Fort Bragg

The Borrow a Buddy program at Fort Bragg's Beachcomber Hotel Group lets guests without dogs spend time with adoptable pups from the Mendocino Coast Humane Society.

Hungry dog waiting for food under the table outdoors

Pet-friendly monterey wine country

Monterey Wine Country spreads across three dog-friendly wine trails near Carmel Valley. Family-owned tasting rooms along Carmel Valley Road, the River Road bench, and the Monterey Bay coastline welcome four-legged visitors with open arms and outdoor seating.