13 Weeks of Summer: Week 8

Now that summer is officially here it’s time to get out of the house and make the most of these three short months.  Each week will include a new idea, dog event, or activity for you and your dog to try.  Don’t be afraid to try something new and encourage your friends to join you.

This Week, Go to the Market

The Fullerton Market is a favorite among locals, and rightly so.  Operating weekly, the market offers fresh produce, prepared foods, arts and crafts, jewelry, novelty and gift items, live entertainment, kid’s activities, and a beer garden.  

This Thursday, August 9^th, you and your dog can experience the renowned market for yourself as the Fullerton Museum Center Association hosts Dog Days at the Fullerton Market.

Dog Days at the Fullerton Market is a great opportunity to not only get a taste of the Fullerton Market but also to join in the camaraderie of the dog community, giving you the chance to interact with other dog lovers and dogs alike.  You and your dog can join in the fun of one of the dog contests, like loudest bark or fastest eater, or simply enjoy a short dog show.  Whatever you decide to do, this special dog market will feature many dog-related vendors and activities to make sure you and your dog have a good time.   

The fun takes place this Thursday, August 9^th, 2012 from 4:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the Downtown Fullerton Plaza located at 125 E. Wilshire Ave., in Fullerton.   

13 Weeks of Summer: Week 7

Now that summer is officially here it’s time to get out of the house and make the most of these three short months.  Each week will include a new idea, dog event, or activity for you and your dog to try.  Don’t be afraid to try something new and encourage your friends to join you.

This Week, Cruise along the Santa Ana River

When’s the last time you went out to enjoy a nice bike ride? The Inland Empire and Orange County have made it possible for their communities to enjoy the Santa Ana River by putting bike trails along it, from the mountains to the coast.  It’s a great way to get the family out of the house and enjoying the outdoors together with your dog.  

Where to go…. 

One great bike trail you can enjoy with your dog is the Riverside Santa Ana River trail.  This trail starts at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains and connects several local parks as it follows the river through Riverside.  Two of the parks along this trail are Fairmont Park and Carlson Dog Park, which are great starting and stopping points for your bike trip.  For more information on the Santa Ana River trail, and Riverside’s plans to connect the trails leading to the Pacific Ocean, check out Riverside’s Parks & Recreation webpage.

If you were up to the task, you could bike from Featherly Regional Park, (off Green River) in Corona, to Huntington Beach, following the Santa Ana River for a cool 30 miles.  But it’s likely you and your dog are not ready for that marathon of a bike ride just yet.  The trail has plenty of starting and stopping points along the way so you can decide how long you want to ride for.  Just remember, when deciding how far to ride, that you will most likely need to ride back the same distance you came, so be sure to save some energy.  Some great starting and stopping points through Orange County are Featherly Regional Park, Yorba Regional Park, Lincoln (off the 57, just past Rio Vista), and Fairview Park just to name a few. 

For all Santa Ana River Trail maps and a complete list of starting/stopping points, as well as picnic and rest areas along the trail, check out the S.A.R.T.website.  You may want to print out a map for the trail you wish to explore because there are many times when you need to cross a bridge to the other side of the river to continue on the trail.

There are also great bike trails along the coast at every beach.  Just pick a beach, find the trail (usually just before the sand), and bike to your heart’s content while you soak in the sun and enjoy the salty sea air blowing through your hair.

Don’t have a bike? No problem!

The City of Anaheim has partnered up with Bike Nation to introduce a new bike share program! It works as “a self-serve kiosk rental system where individuals can rent and return a bicycle anywhere within a network of stations within the City of Anaheim” – Anahiem Magazine. This first year of the program will be a trial run so there are limited rental stations as of yet, but you can find one of the bike rental kiosks at the Anaheim Metrolink Station, which is in close proximity to the Santa Ana River Trail.  For more information on this program visit www.anaheim.net or www.bikenationusa.com.

Before you go….

Biking with your dog can be a very positive experience for both of you.  If your dog has never gone walking next to a bike, be sure to introduce him slowly (and with treats if need be) so he has a positive association with the bike.  Once he is comfortable around the bike, take your dog out on a couple of short biking trips (around the block is good) so he gets a chance see how to cooperate with the bike and also to toughen up the pads of his feet.  If a dog doesn’t have tough foot pads they will most likely get torn walking or running alongside a bike for too long. 

During these hot summer days, its best to go biking in the morning before 11 a.m. or in the evening after 6 p.m. You don’t want a heat stroke for you or your dog.  Put on sunscreen (your dog may need some too), bring plenty of water for you and your dog, and pack a light snack.

Walking or running alongside a bike is not for every dog so you should take your dog’s physical health, size, and age into consideration before deciding to bike with him.  Also, biking with your dog should be done with great caution when around cars, pedestrians, or other dogs and bikers.  Remember to always put safety first!

13 Weeks of Summer: Week 6

Now that summer is officially here it’s time to get out of the house and make the most of these three short months.  Each week will include a new idea, dog event, or activity for you and your dog to try.  Don’t be afraid to try something new and encourage your friends to join you.

This Week, Take a Trip to the Beach

Have you ever gone an entire summer without visiting the beach?  As a native Californian you know that it’s possible to take the beach for granted.  But with the coast so close, and with the days getting hotter, it would be a crying shame not to take a little time to cool off at the beach before summer is over.  So this weekend, give yourself a break from the hustle and bustle of life and go relax on the beach with your dog.

Wine a Bit at Yappy Hour…

On Thursday night (July 26^th) stop in the Just Food For Dogs kitchen in Newport for yappy hour.  New to the yappy hour scene? Yappy hour is a chance for social adults and their social pups to join in the fun of cocktail hour.  While you sip on wine and eat hors d’oeuvres your pup gets to sip his own non-alcoholic beverage (usually chicken broth) and eat dog biscuits.  While yappy hours are held in various dog-friendly locations, this yappy hour is hosted by Just Food For Dogs, in their store front/commercial, human-grade kitchen.  Just Food For Dogs provides fresh, nutritional food made entirely from USDA/FDA ingredients created by a team composed of a veterinarian, canine nutrition expert, pet chef, and a crew of dogs and dog lovers.  Check out their facility, enjoy some tasty treats, and let your pup sample their wholesome creations while you mingle.  This yappy hour takes place on the fourth Thursday of every month, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. and is located at 500 W Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, Ca 92663.

Catch Some Rays at the Huntington Dog Beach…

One of the best places for a dog to be a dog is romping through the sand and splashing in the water at the Huntington Dog Beach.  Even if your dog doesn’t like the water, playing on the sand is a better workout for him them walking on concrete.  The dog beach can be found at the very end of Goldenwest Street in Huntington Beach (around lifeguard tower 24).  The dog beach stretches from Goldenwest Street to Seapoint Street (to the right of Goldenwest when facing the beach from PCH).  There is metered parking along PCH or free parking one to five blocks inland, among the homes.  Check out the Huntington Dog Beach website for a list of beach rules and other FAQs.  Don’t forget to bring poop bags, a towel, fresh water for your dog, and sunblock if your dog requires it.  If it is your dog’s first time at the beach don’t be afraid to take it slow.  You want his first experience to be positive so you can come back again.  

Stop for a Bite at the Park Bench Café…

After a good run at the beach, your pup should be tired.  A tired dog is a good dog so it’s the perfect time to stop in at the Park Bench Café for a bite to eat.  Located at 17732 Goldenwest Street, in Huntington Beach, the Park Bench Café is a one of a kind stop for dog lovers who want to enjoy food and the beautiful outdoors with their four-legged friends.  After you order one of their delicious menu items for yourself, be sure to get something for your dog off the dog menu.  Your pooch can get a hot dog (without the bun), chicken, ground beef, bacon, lean ground turkey, and even eggs.  Check out the ParkBench Café website for a complete menu and list of dog rules to make sure your first visit there goes smoothly.  And if you have the energy after eating, you and your pup can saunter around the beautiful surrounding park before heading home.

13 Weeks of Summer: Week 5

Now that summer is officially here it’s time to get out of the house and make the most of these three short months.  Each week will include a new idea, dog event, or activity for you and your dog to try.  Don’t be afraid to try something new and encourage your friends to join you.

This week, take a Hike! (Literally)

Put on your boots and grab the dog, it’s time to get out and explore your neck of the woods.  The Inland Empire has a treasure trove of hiking trails, from Temecula to Big Bear, just waiting to be explored.  The best part is, your four-legged pal can join you and explore too (on leash, of course).  Remember to bring plenty of fresh water for you and your pup and be careful not to bring any new creatures home with you.

1.       Louis Robidoux Nature Center, Riverside -  This park offers several hiking trails, many of which take hikers around Sunnyslope Creek.  There are other trails which take hikers to Schroder’s Pond, Burnt Pond, or the Santa Ana River.  Additionally, this park has several educational bridges highlighting the native animals and plants of the park.   Located at 5370 Riverview in Riverside.

2.       Skyline Trail, Corona – For hiking or biking, some of the best views of Corona can be can be seen from this little known trail which leads to the Cleveland National Forest.  Located on Skyline Drive (off Lincoln Ave, turn right onto foothill, the entrance is a little hard to find) in Corona.

3.       Pine Knot Trail, Big Bear -  This moderate 6-mile (roundtrip) hike gives you an little more of a physical challenge while rewarding you with a breath taking view of the world below.   Parking is located at Aspen Grove (just off Highway 18, past the Big Bear Dam and Mill Creek Road) in Big Bear.

If you would like to cool off in this hot weather, you may enjoy a costal hike better.  California boasts 1,200 miles of wild and urban trails along the coast, appropriately called ‘California Coastal Trail’.  Enjoy the view and the breeze with your dog, no matter where you might be along the California Coast.  More specifically, Laguna Beach is littered with trails that are great for day hikes.  The most popular places to hike is El Moro Canyon and Crystal Cove State Park because of the variety and diversity of the trails there.  Just be aware, the trails are shared with mountain bikers so keep your dog close and out of the bikers’ way.

1.       El Moro Ridge Grand Loop – This trail can be found just 3 miles south of Corona Del Mar, on Pacific Coast Highway in Laguna Beach.  This trail is great for any level of hiker because although it is a 9.5 mile loop, there are several other trails (at various parts along the main trail) that cut through it allowing a hiker to take a short cut and make the loop shorter according to their comfort level.   Parking can be found in the El Moro Canyon/Crystal Cove parking lot off of PCH.  For complete directions, click on the trail title.   Also, be aware that dogs are not allowed on any Crystal Cove backcountry trails.  

2.       RanchoSan Clemente Ridgeline Trail – This trail is 3 ½ miles long with wide angle views of the coastline from Dana Point to San Diego.  The trail is mostly asphalt but there are a couple of points along the trail that are natural soil.  The majority of the trail is easy, long grades but there are a few points that are steep, making this an appealing option for any type of hiker.  This trail has 6 entrances, one of which is just behind the Sergeant Baron Von Willard Memorial Dog Playground, and 3 of which that have parking nearby.  Parking can be found on Avenida Salvador, from Avenida Presidio off the 5 freeway.  For complete directions and a map of the trail, click on the trail title.

Want to find a trail near you? Check out www.trails.com and click on ‘Trail Finder’ to locate a trail closer to home or to find a new trail to explore. 

13 Weeks of Summer: Week 4

Now that summer is officially here it’s time to get out of the house and make the most of these three short months.  Each week will include a new idea, dog event, or activity for you and your dog to try.  Don’t be afraid to try something new or invite a friend along. 

This Weekend:

Do you and your pup like music? Why not enjoy a concert in the park? This Saturday, July 14^th, The Shops at Dos Lagos kick off their “Rockin’ at Dos Lagos” summer concert series of tribute bands.  Bring a blanket, a lawn chair, and some friends and get ready to rock along to your favorite classics from Aerosmith, U2, Queen, The Who, Led Zeppelin, Boston, and Styx.   Each week will feature a different band, starting this week with Aeromyth (Aerosmith tribute band), at 7p.m. until 9p.m.  Admission is free but if you spend $20 or more at any Dos Lagos restaurant on the day of the concert you will receive 2 VIP seats.  VIP seating is limited so be sure to check in at customer service booth starting at 5p.m. to ensure you get your seat.

Don’t forget your petiquette while enjoying the concert.  Remind your pup to be on his best doggy behavior at all times.  Keep him on his leash, be sure to pick up any messes he leaves, and bring plenty of fresh water for him.   

The Shops at Dos Lagos is located at 2780 Cabot Drive in Corona. Click on the “Rockin’ at Dos Lagos” link for the complete concert schedule.  

Are you or your dog not in to rock n’ roll? That’s ok, because Huntington Beach Central Park has a weekly summer Concerts in the Park series as well, with big bands, jazz bands, and orchestras.  Get lost in that old time music this Sunday, July 15^th, as The Swing Cats Big Band recreates sounds from the 30’s, 40’s, and 50’s. Each week will showcase a different band, continuing next Sunday with Orquesta Charangoa.  Admission is free and the bands start at 5p.m. so bring a blanket, a lawn chair, and some friends to get lost in the nostalgia.
Again, don’t forget your petiquette while enjoying the concert.  Remind your pup to be on his best doggy behavior at all times.  Keep him on his leash, be sure to pick up any messes he leaves, and bring plenty of fresh water for him.   

The Huntington Beach Central Park is located at 7111 Talbert Avenue, on the corner of Goldenwest and Talbert, in Huntington Beach. Click on ‘Concerts in the Park’ link for a complete concert schedule.

13 Weeks of Summer: Week 2

Now that summer is officially here it’s time to get out of the house and make the most of these three short months.  Each week will include a new idea, dog event, or activity for you and your dog to try.  Don’t be afraid to try something new or invite a friend along. 

Coming up this Week:

California Dreamin’ Pet Fair

If you (or your friend) don’t have a dog yet to be able to enjoy the 13 weeks of summer series, well, here is your chance to get a new furry companion. Saturday, June 30^th, 2012, OC Animal Care will be hosting a pet adoption event at the OC animal shelter in Orange.  From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. visitors can check out the pets available for adoption as well as local pet-friendly vendors, demonstrations, and more.  The OC Animal Care’s California Dreamin’ PetFair is a great chance to give a dog, cat, or other small animal a second chance and a new forever home.   

The OC animal shelter is located at 561 The City Dr. S, Orange, Ca 92868.

4th of July Parades

Fireworks are a major part of our Independence Day celebration, but they aren’t the only way, nor the best way, to celebrate with your dog.  Any 4^th of July parade is a patriotic way to celebrate our freedom and it’s a great way to involve your dog in the celebration as well. 

 Enjoy the festivities of 4^th of July this year by lining up along Main Street in Corona for their annual 4^th of July parade.  The parade starts at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Main Street and Ontario and continues until 12 p.m. ending at Main Street and Olive Street.

The Huntington Beach 4^th of July Parade is said to be “the largest Independence Day parade west of the Mississippi River” with more than 300 entries, from bands and floats to celebrities and community groups.  The parade starts at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Main Street and Pacific Coast Highway and will end at Main Street and Yorktown Avenue.

The Newport Beach Harbor Old Glory Boat Parade is a festive spectacle of boats, decorated in red, white, and blue, cruising around the harbor.  The fun filled day begins at 7 a.m. with a pancake breakfast for a donation of $8 per person.  Lunch and dinner (tri-tip and chicken) will be available from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. for a donation of $10 per person.  There will be raffles and live entertainment throughout the day as well.

There will plenty of patriotic parades throughout Southern California this Independence Day, such as the parades in Ontario and Lake Forest, so check your local city calendar to see if your city will be hosting a parade this year.  And remember that fireworks can be very upsetting for a dog, so please leave your dog at home in a secure room with soothing music on if you can’t be with them.  Have a safe and fun 4^th of July.   

13 Weeks of Summer

Now that summer is officially here it’s time to get out of the house and make the most of these three short months.  Each week will include a new idea, dog event, or activity for you and your dog to try.  Don’t be afraid to try something new or invite a friend along. 

This Weekend:

Helpful Honda Pet Adoption

If you (or your friend) don’t have a dog yet to be able to enjoy the 13 weeks of summer series, well, now is the time to get one. Tomorrow, Saturday, June 23^rd, 2012, Honda will be sponsoring a pet adoption at the Fairview Park in Costa Mesa.  From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. the Helpful Honda people will be helping i.C.A.R.E DogRescue find new forever homes for their available dogs.  As if that wasn’t great enough, SoCal Honda will also be sending each adopted dog home with a new leash and collar and they will also be donating supplies to the rescue group.  In addition, Natura Pet Products will be sending each adopted dog home with a 5lb. bag of premium pet food.  

The park is located at 2525 Placentia Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92628.   

Rancho Cucamonga Firefighters 15th Annual Benefit Car Show

On Sunday, June 24^th, 2012, you and your dog can attend your first event of the summer at the Rancho Cucamonga Firefighters 15^th Annual Benefit Car Show.  The event will be taking place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Red Hill Community Park in Rancho Cucamonga in support of local burn survivors through the Burn institute – Inland Empire.  Awards will be given to the top 10 cars and truck, including Best in Show.  Admission for spectators is free, so bring the kids and the dog to check out the classic cars and trucks and enjoy the food, music, vendors and more.

The Park is located at 7484 Vineyard Avenue, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730

Man's Best Friend Mondays

Whether you like baseball or not, Man’s Best Friend Mondays are a great opportunity to try something new and meet new people or create new memories with your friends. Starting this Monday, June 25^th, 2012, San Manuel Stadium invites you and your dog to come and enjoy a 66er’s baseball game in the lawn section with the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley Man’s Best Friend Monday.  The cost is only $5 to you and your dog gets in for free. You and your dog are invited to come back again for the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley Man’s Best Friend Monday on July 9^th and August 27^th.  The 66er's play the Lake Elsinor Storm this Monday and the game starts at 7 p.m. Don’t forget to bring a chair or blanket for you and plenty of water for your pup.

The San Manuel Stadium is located at 280 South E Street, San Bernardino, CA 92401