Planning a trip to California’s wine country, and hoping to take your dog? There’s so much you can do together! And with these tips, you can be sure you’ll both enjoy your vacation.
Photo copyright: Paroma Chakravarty
California is the leading producer of new world wines, and boasts a climate that is perfect for growing those luscious grapes. From Anderson Valley in the north to Santa Barbara in the south, it’s a wine lover’s paradise. And exploring wine country with your dog makes it even more special!
More importantly for dog lovers, wine country is extremely dog friendly. So there is no reason to leave your pooch behind while you have all the fun!
In this article, I am sharing what we learned while traveling to the cities of Sebastopol and Calistoga, where we had a ton of fun exploring, eating, and wine tasting.
Photo copyright: Paroma Chakravarty
Photo copyright: Paroma Chakravarty
Wine Country Is Big – Where Should You Go With Your Dog?
The most famous spots in wine country are undoubtedly Napa Valley and Sonoma County. Both are a reasonable drive from San Francisco and popular weekend getaways for many.
Unfortunately, Napa and Sonoma can be crowded throughout the year. That puts a high demand on rooms – especially those that are dog friendly. So, if you want to stay in Napa or Sonoma you’ll need to do your pet friendly research beforehand!
A better option might be to explore some of the less famous towns in wine country. If you and your dog prefer a more relaxed pace, more personal attention, and relief from traffic, this could be a great solution for you.
Pet friendly towns like Calistoga and Sebastopol, in Sonoma County, are great choices!
Tip #1: For a more budget-friendly trip, and to avoid the congestion of the better-known areas in wine country, choose a place off the beaten path.
Exploring Pet Friendly Calistoga
Calistoga is a sleepy little town in the northern most part of Napa Valley, and is best known for its spas. What might surprise you are the many things to do that keep both dog and human entertained!
Our vacation started the moment we arrived at the huge dog friendly patio at Solbar, the restaurant at the stylish Solage Resort.
Photo copyright: Paroma Chakravarty
After a delicious lunch, we were charged up and ready to explore the area. If you only have time for one attraction in Calistoga, don’t miss “Little Old Faithful” geyser on Tubbs Lane.
This is a cousin to the more famous Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park – but this one is dog friendly! You can sit in the viewing area and watch the geyser erupt at regular intervals, and then stroll the gardens and grounds.
Of course, a trip to wine country should involve some wine sampling! And if you’ve visited wine country before, but not since the fire in 2020, you’ll find things have changed.
In September 2020, California’s wine country suffered extensive damage in the Glass Fire. Many wineries and vineyards were affected, and most are still recovering. The result is that most wineries now require you to make reservations for a tasting. This provides for a more personal experience, but also requires that you plan ahead.
Tip #2: Most wineries and vineyards now require reservations for a tasting, so it’s important to make plans in advance.
We recommend scheduling a tasting at Clos Pegase, pet-friendly winery where well-behaved dogs are welcome on a leash. Note that, due to safety regulations, dogs are not allowed on the Clos Pegase estate tours.
Tip #3: Some notoriously dog-friendly tasting rooms have had to change their policies as of late. So even if you’ve brought your pooch in the past, don’t forget to double check existing guidelines.
Photo copyright: Paroma Chakravarty
Sniffing Around Sebastopol
Sebastopol, in Sonoma County, is another dog friendly city that’s just begging for a long weekend’s stay. Located between Santa Rosa and Bodega Bay, this tiny city is packed with great places where pets are welcome. Factor in the excellent hiking options, and this could be your new favorite spot to explore in wine country with your dog!
Some of the memorable dog friendly places we dined during our visit in were:
Hole in the Wall – a popular breakfast spot with patio seating
HopMonk Tavern – where leashed dogs are welcome in the beergarden
Viva Mexicana – excellent food and dog friendly
You can also grab food and drinks at The Barlow, a 12-acre outdoor market district in Sebastopol. Strolling the dog-friendly campus, you’ll find local food, wine, beer, spirits and crafts made onsite by Sonoma County artisans.
Wine tasting is also an option there, and we tried MacPhail Tasting Lounge, which had outdoor seating and welcomed dogs.
Sebastopol’s most popular dog friendly hiking trails, West Regional County and Joe Rodota, criss-cross and meet the now abandoned Santa Rosa railroad to the north. You can get some exercise (dogs must be leashed) and then visit historic Rail Road Square in Santa Rosa where local boutiques and thrift shops tempt passing shoppers.
Tip #4: Between tastings, find pet friendly trails in the area to give your pup a chance to sniff the local trees and bushes.
Photo copyright: Paroma Chakravarty
Nearby Howard Regional Park also has dog friendly hiking trails. But keep in mind that the lake there is full of geese, and it gets pretty crowded with picnicking families weekends.
A better choice might be Rangle Ranch Regional Park, which has beautiful trails and an off-leash area where friendly dogs can socialize.
Photo copyright: Paroma Chakravarty
About the Author: Paroma Chakravarty is a scientist by day, and blogger by night. She lives in the beautiful city of San Francisco with her husband and their pup, Gunda. She records their adventures, plus dining experiences and her travel travails, on her blog, yrofthemonkey.com.
Animals entertaining us with their strange behavior can positively impact our emotional health. You may have a child who has asked you repeatedly about getting a pet, and you haven’t made a final decision. If you have the resources to care for a pet and no one is allergic, pets can be an excellent addition to the family, and we’ll examine why below.
10 Reasons Why Pets Are Great for Kids
1. Teaches Responsibility
Tasks like cleaning out the fish tank or taking the dog for a walk teach children to be responsible and give them a sense of achievement. It teaches them dependability. If you need to take the dog for a walk after being out of the house all day, you’re teaching your child the importance of thinking and empathizing with another living creature that is also dependent on them. Pets will also offer a sense of empowerment. Children move through the world having decisions made for them but keeping a pet can make them feel more grown up.
2. Provides Companionship & Comfort
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Children can find security and support from their pets, which generally means they will often feel less anxious or withdrawn. Pets can help with confidence and learning. A child that is reluctant to read aloud in school might feel more comfortable reading to their pet, as they see them as a non-judgmental audience they can practice on.
3. Encourages Activity
Pets encourage owners to take them for walks or play with them, so owning a pet gets your child outside and moving. This will benefit their overall health.
4. Reduces Allergies
A study1 in 2017 found that babies with pets in the home are less likely to develop allergies because they are exposed to allergens such as pet dander and dirt that their pets have brought into the house.
5. Strengthens Bond With Family
Image Credit: cottonbro studio, Pexels
Pets are instrumental in bringing people together. You can do activities with your child and their pet, like walking the dog or feeding the pet together. They’re simple tasks but can be enjoyable, especially when done together.
6. Lowers Blood Pressure
Stroking an animal has been known to lower blood pressure which, in turn, decreases anxiety levels. This doesn’t just extend to pets that children can cuddle. Talking to a bird or a fish can also benefit a child’s temperament.
7. Teaches About Loss or Grief
Pets are often seen as family members; they teach children how to deal with grief when they die. Loss is complex to navigate, and sometimes a pet dying will be the first time a child experiences the death of a loved one. Children will learn coping skills and the importance of a support system as you help them process this loss.
8. Pets Can Change Behavior
Image Credit: cottonbro studio, Pexels
Pets have needs and personalities that are their own. They make mistakes, get scared, and have strengths and weaknesses. They also need to communicate their wants and needs, and your child will need to learn the pet’s routine and anticipate its needs. They will learn to be tolerant of differences and accept new responsibilities.
9. Teach Social Skills
Pets provide lessons in boundaries, respect, connection, and empathy. Pets need attention and care, and a child must be empathetic and compassionate to form a strong bond with their pet.
10. They’re Fun!
Whichever pet you have, the truth is that having a pet is fun. Each has its own unique personality that you and your child will enjoy getting to know.
Conclusion
There are many reasons a pet makes the perfect addition to a family. When making this decision, you must also consider which animal is suitable for your family. Research is your best friend, as is discussing it with your family. Pets take up a lot of space and demand attention, so the whole family needs to be on board. Whichever pet you select, we’re sure it’ll be no time before it’s fast friends with everyone, not just your kid!
It is common for Pitbulls to be misunderstood and judged due to their breed, but with proper training and care, they can make great pets. Pitbulls were originally bred in England as working dogs. They were brought to the United States by immigrants, who used them for hunting game, guarding their property, and providing companionship to their families.
Pitbulls have a reputation for aggression and many Pitbull owners feel this is undeserved. It’s true that several incidents involving Pitbulls have been sensationalized in the media in recent decades. As a result, some believe these dogs have been unfairly portrayed as dangerous animals. However, while they are a breed that requires care and respect, they can be calm and obedient companions—if they are strongly bonded to their owners and well-trained. Just like any other canine, they need regular exercise, firm control, and mental stimulation to thrive.
Pitbulls are muscular and powerful, so safety concerns are valid, and it is common for other people to worry and act nervously or skittishly around Pitbulls when they see them out in public. Therefore, collars are an essential part of responsible Pitbull ownership. In addition to making walking your pup much easier, they can also help keep your pet—and everyone around them—much safer. Read on for our reviews of the top 7 best collars for Pitbulls.
The OneTigris Nylon Military Dog Collar is a great choice for Pitbull owners looking for a high-quality collar. This comfortable, strong, and adjustable collar is perfect for training and everyday use. The heavy-duty nylon material ensures durability, the buckle closure keeps it in place, and the padded interior makes it comfortable for your dog to wear all day. It comes with an adjustable strap that can be adjusted from 17.7 to 20.9 inches so you can get the perfect fit for your pup.
In order to ensure the collar stays on at all times, it has five adjustable points with two parallel holes at each point for the collar to be adjusted. It comes with a heavy-duty metal D-ring that makes attaching your buddy’s favorite dog leash nice and easy. There is one negative aspect to nylon webbing, which according to some owners, can be rough on the neck of their dog.
Pros
High-quality nylon material
Comfortable and durable
Range of sizes and colors available
Easily adjustable
Cons
Some owners find the nylon webbing a little rough on their dog’s necks
2. PetSafe Quick Snap Buckle Nylon Martingale Dog Collar – Best Value
The PetSafe Quick Snap Buckle Nylon Martingale Dog Collar is the best Pitbull collar for the money. Made with high-quality nylon, this martingale-style collar offers superior comfort and durability at an unbeatable price. It features a quick-snap buckle that makes it easy to put on and take off, and its design ensures your Pitbull will not slip out of the collar when it’s securely fastened. The adjustable strap allows for a custom fit in any size neck, giving you peace of mind that your pup won’t be able to escape from the closure. The bright colors add an extra level of visibility for added safety while outdoors, making this collar perfect for walking or jogging with your pup.
With five colors to choose from, you should be able to find something to suit your furry friend perfectly. In contrast to some standard collars, this collar does not cause matting or bald spots on the skin. One major issue seems to be that many people find the sizing on this brand is off—and that you may need to size down.
Soft Touch Collars Leather Two-Tone Padded Dog Collar is the best premium collar for your Pitbull. Crafted from high-quality leather and with a stylish two-tone design, this collar is sure to turn heads while providing maximum comfort for your pup. You won’t find anything flashy or fancy about this collar. However, it is made from real leather and is hand stitched. To prevent fraying, the edges of the leather are sealed, and the inside is lined with sheepskin. Because of this padding on the inner side, it will protect your dog’s neck from irritation and sores caused by traditional collars. The outer side of this luxurious collar has an elegant finish made of soft-touch leather, which provides an extra layer of protection against dirt and dust.
It also features adjustable straps to find the perfect fit for your dog’s neck size. This hardware is made of solid brass, which is corrosion-resistant and designed to last a long time. Your dog’s ID can be hung with a mini-brass ring. You can easily reach the larger ring on the back of your dog’s neck since it sits opposite the buckle on the collar, and there are many different colors and sizes to choose from.
Pros
High-quality leather material
Stylish two-tone design
Hand-stitched and sealed edges to prevent fraying
Inner sheepskin lining for comfort and to prevent irritation and sores
Hardware made of corrosion-resistant solid brass
Cons
A little more expensive than some others we reviewed
4. Max And Neo Stainless Steel Chain Martingale Collar – Best for Puppies
Extra small, small, medium, medium-large, and large
Color options:
Black, blue, orange, pink, red, teal
There is no doubt that this collar made by Max and Neo is one of the best available options for owners of Pitbull puppies at home. As well as being adjustable, it is also ideal for leash training because it tightens around their neck as they pull on the leash. From a very young age, they will learn the proper way to walk on a leash properly, which is very important for Pitbulls. Additionally, nylon is soft on the skin of young dogs.
One drawback is that the snap closures are not as secure as metal buckles, but this shouldn’t pose much of a problem for Pitbull puppies who do not have the same pulling strength as adult dogs. In addition, some owners find that the hoop for the ID tag is a little small and not very secure.
Black, aqua, grey, burgundy, green, orange, pink, red, blue
It is important to choose something that will support a lot of weight and muscle when you have a large dog breed. The Black Rhino comfort collar is one of the best overall collars for Pitbulls for everyday use. With this neoprene collar, your dog will be able to enjoy a comfortable yet firm fit thanks to its sturdy, padded material. The collar is lightweight, despite being heavy-duty. It comes in a wide variety of colors. Additionally, the material dries quickly and can be machine washed to eliminate odors and there is no possibility of it coming undone because it’s secured with a buckle.
A major drawback of the design is how wide it is, which may not be ideal for dogs with shorter necks. In addition, many owners dislike the prominent branding on the collar.
The Tuff Pupper Heavy Duty Dog Collar is a great choice if you’re looking for a quality, heavy-duty dog collar for your Pitbull. Comfortable and stylish, this strong, durable collar can withstand all that your pup can throw at it. No matter how much your dog pulls or strains, its fray-proof nylon and stainless-steel buckle will keep its neck safe. The buckle that can be adjusted ensures that the collar fits snugly without being too tight or uncomfortable. And if you’re worried about style, never fear! This great Pitbull collar comes in a variety of colors and patterns so you’re sure to find something that matches your pup’s personality perfectly.
The materials used are also high-quality, meaning this tough piece of hardware will last for years, however, it is difficult to clean due to its bumpy texture. Additionally, some owners say that their dogs have chewed through this collar.
For those who are looking for a quality and durable collar for their Pitbull dog, the DAIHAQIKO Genuine Leather Dog Collar is a decent option. This collar is made of genuine leather, which means that it will withstand rough play sessions with your dog for a long time. In order to keep it secure, it is equipped with a sturdy metal buckle that will help keep it in place during active play.
DAIHAQIKO Genuine Leather Dog Collars come in a variety of sizes, allowing you to easily find one that fits your Pitbull regardless of their size. Its choice of colors gives your Pitbull a stylish look while wearing it. However, the leather material may not provide as much comfort and breathability as some other materials. Overall, it is good enough for everyday use but has some flaws to consider—mainly that some heavy-pulling PItties have managed to tear through the leather on this product.
Pros
Made of genuine leather, which is durable
Equipped with sturdy metal buckle for security
Available in a variety of sizes to fit any Pitbull
Cons
May not be as comfortable or breathable as other materials
Some heavy pulling Pitbulls have managed to tear through the leather
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Collars for Pitbulls
Pitbulls are a popular breed of dog known for their strength, loyalty, and tenacity. Finding the perfect collar for them can be challenging. It’s important to select a collar that will not only fit your pup properly but also provide the right amount of support and security. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll offer some tips to help you find the ideal Pitbull collar.
Neck Size
Choosing the right size collar for your Pitbull can be a tricky task. That’s why it is important to refer to the manufacturer’s size chart when selecting. Knowing what type of collar your dog needs, whether it is a flat collar or a martingale, and taking into account factors such as neck circumference and material are all essential considerations. Luckily, most manufacturers provide comprehensive sizing charts to help you find the perfect fit for your pup.
First off, measure the circumference of your dog’s neck with a soft measuring tape—or even a piece of string. It is important to take accurate measurements so that the collar fits comfortably without being too tight or too loose on the neck. Normally, with other breeds, we would tell you to add 2 inches so the collar fits your dog’s neck comfortably. A Pitbull’s neck can sometimes be as thick as its skull, however. Because of that, Pitbull collars can be more easily slipped over their heads than those of other breeds. In order to prevent your Pitbull from pulling out of the collar, it should fit close to their neck.
Once you have determined this number, match it up with one of the sizes provided by the manufacturer in their sizing chart. Make sure any collar you buy has holes or adjustable features for proper fitting and good quality buckles and D-rings for secure attachment of tags and leashes.
Image Credit: Makarand Sawant, Pexels
Purpose
It is important to understand what the main purpose of the collar is to narrow down your options. Are you looking for a collar for daily walks, or do you need something special for obedience work? The primary purpose of a Pitbull collar is to provide control when walking or playing outdoors. Some owners may opt for one type of collar that serves multiple purposes, while others choose different types of collars for different needs.
Type of Collar
Pitbulls are an incredibly loyal and loving breed of dog, but they can also be strong-willed and require firm training. The right collar is a key part of that process, as it provides a safe and effective way to keep your pet secure during walks or in other situations. There are several types of collars available for Pitbulls, each offering various benefits according to the needs of your unique pup.
The most common type of collar for a Pitbull is the flat buckle collar. This style provides basic control while still allowing your pet plenty of comfort due to its adjustable feature. It’s available in materials like nylon and leather, both of which come in multiple sizes, so you can find one that fits your dog perfectly. For additional control, consider opting for a martingale, prong collar, or harness.
Martingale
These collars provide extra control by tightening slightly whenever your pup pulls on their leash. They also help keep pups from slipping out of their collars when outside playing or on long walks. Even though Martingale collars can be tightened to a certain degree, they cannot be tightened enough to choke or injure your Pitbull.
Prong Collars
Some owners consider prong collars to be among the best collars for Pitbulls due to their effectiveness, durability, and safety. However, they have also been viewed as problematic in recent years as they involve putting your dog in discomfort as a way of training them. Prong collars are a type of collar typically made from metal links that pinch the skin around the dog’s neck when they pull on their leash. This sensation is uncomfortable but not painful and can be used to deter Pitbull behavior, such as jumping or bolting away from their owner.
On top of being effective, prong collars also provide more control than traditional slip-leads or flat buckle collars since they don’t require continuous pressure on the collar itself. However, many people believe the use of these collars is cruel.
Harnesses
Dog harnesses protect your dog’s neck from potential injuries caused by pulling on their leash. Some people say they also help better control their dog during walks, reducing jerking motions that could cause choking or other health risks. Harnesses will also put less pressure on their trachea than using a collar alone would, making them ideal for dogs who have respiratory issues or sensitive throats. On top of that, they can even provide extra support to older dogs suffering from joint problems or arthritis in their necks.
Image Credit: Lee Hardy, Unsplash
Materials
Pitbulls, due to their strong pull, require a durable collar that is made of strong material. Nylon webbing is an excellent choice as its highly abrasion-resistant and cost-effective. For those looking for something more stylish, leather collars are another great option—they offer flexibility in terms of size and look very attractive. They may not be as durable as nylon webbing, but with proper care and maintenance can last a long time; however, leather does have the disadvantage of losing its shape when wet.
Extras
Several Pitbull collars come with special features like personalization, hardware attachments, and control handles so that owners can better control their furry friends. Personalized tags provide an extra layer of protection for lost pets when collars have the pet’s name and owner’s contact information inscribed on them. Hardware attachments can also allow owners to attach leashes and accessories like water bottles, poop bags, or toys while out walking with their pup. Also, look out for features like reflective material if needed, which can help keep your dog safe at night.
Image Credit: Caroline Ziemkiewicz, Unsplash
Read Reviews
When it comes to finding the right collar for your pup, you have to consider both quality and reviews. The last thing you want is a poorly made collar that will break or come undone in an emergency situation. Quality materials such as leather, nylon webbing, and strong buckles should be considered when purchasing a Pitbull collar. Make sure to read reviews from other pet owners who have purchased the same product so you can make an informed decision on which one is best for your pup’s safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to find a collar that meets the unique needs of your Pitbull. Choose one that fits their wide neck properly and is made with quality, durable materials that will stand up to use and abuse. The OneTigris Nylon Military Dog Collar is our favorite choice for Pitbull owners looking for a high-quality collar. This collar is perfect for training and everyday use. The PetSafe Quick Snap Buckle Nylon Martingale Dog Collar is the best Pitbull collar for the money with high-quality nylon, a quick-snap buckle, and an adjustable strap that allows for a custom fit in any size neck.
Consider a collar with a built-in ID tag or one that can be customized for your pup’s safety and style. Soft, wide collars are great for dogs with short fur, while thick, padded collars provide extra protection and support for heavy-pulling dogs. Don’t forget to include an adjustable buckle to get the perfect fit every time!
