Garrett's Profile
Garrett's Contributions
Donation Total:
$18.75
Your Donation Ranking:
5
Track your donations!
Fido Factor donates to the SPCA every time you add a review or location to the site. Learn more >
Profile Photos (5)
Location Photos (100)
Mobile Uploads (27)
Reviews (45)
3/5 6:00pm
Dog Friendly Pinewood Drive Rental
We came up to South Lake Tahoe for a weekend of skiing and stayed at this house on Pinewood drive. It had everything you needed: comfy beds, plenty of room, fenced backyard for the dogs, and 3 bedrooms. The place isn't fancy but it is nice, close to Heavenly, and dog friendly.
3/5 10:04am
Keys Cafe
This place is tucked away off the main road. It has a eclectic atmosphere, great coffee, and a delicious breakfast sandwich.
There are a couple dog friendly tables out front where you can enjoy your food. They aren't covered or anything so it isn't ideal in winter but hopefully you're still wearing your ski stuff.
3/5 9:58am
Bijou Dog Park
We were up in South Lake Tahoe for a dog friendly weekend and decided to stop by this dog park before heading home. This is a really nice park. It has a very large off leash fenced area and also a second smaller fenced area for small dogs.
There is water (turned off in the winter), poop bags, and a shady bench to sit on. We also met a bunch of friendly people and dogs there. Check it out if you live in South Lake on need some doggie fun before heading home.
2/16 12:53pm
Pine Lake Park
We spent the day Sunday at Pine Lake Park and Stern Grove. Pink Lake Park features a large off leash dog area, water fountains, and a pavilion for owners to sit under.
We parked on Wawona and walked from the Stern Grove off leash area, past the amphitheater and down to the lake. It was a sunny Sunday and there were dozens of dogs for Captain to play with.
There is a parking lot off of Sloan right next to the off leash area or you can street park on Wawona and explore the park a bit.
This park is definitely worth checking out. They have a concert series at Stern Grove in the summer so you probably want to avoid the park then or expect difficulty parking.
2/15 3:18pm
Carmel City Beach
Carmel City Beach is a beautiful spot just at the end of Ocean Ave. There is parking right by the beach as well as restrooms and water. It is also a short walk from many of the Carmel hotels and B&Bs.
My puppy went crazy when we let him off leash at the beach. The sand is very soft and clean. He ran figure eights for about ten minutes and then proceeded to dig a hole and shove his face in. If only I had been quick enough to take a video.
After that we walked a ways down the beach enjoying a foggy day. This is one of the best dog friendly off leash beached we've visited in California. Be sure to check it out if you're passing through Carmel.
2/14 12:17pm
Garden Cafe & Deli
This place is super dog friendly and makes awesome sandwiches. The mark of a great sandwich place is homemade bread and Garden Cafe delivers. Their bread is sliced thick, soft, and just a bit of a crunchy crust.
Garden Cafe is also very dog friendly. They had a water bowl by the door and a couple different outside seating areas. There is also a pub in the same building and it looked like you might be able to have a drink on their back patio with your dog. Check in out when you're in Half Moon Bay!
2/14 10:14am
Moonside Bakery & Cafe
Wow, Moonside has the best bagels! I didn't get the chance to try anything else but all the baked goods looked great. There are a number of tables outside so you can hang out with the dog and enjoy coffee and breakfast.
2/7 10:34am
Mudpuppy's Sit
Your expectations can't be too high when your getting food from a dog park (unless maybe you're a dog). After our morning romp in the park I stopped in Sit and Stay Cafe to grab a coffee. I'm kind of a coffee snob and I have to say it was about as good as it gets outside of a real coffee place. Since the coffee was so good, I decided to try the food. I had a hot dog and my friends had one of the sandwiches. Both of them were delicious.
Check out Mudpuppy's Cafe when you're at Point Isabel and support a tasty cafe in America's largest dog park.
1/9 8:50pm
Redwood Regional Park
Just got back from spending a day hiking a Redwood Regional Park. The park is large and has many different trails. We ended up on the MacDonald Trail which heads into Chabot Regional Park. The trail rises about 1000 feet so you get a decent workout but none of the hills were too long or steep.
The park seems to get a lot of horseback riders and mountain bikers so you might want to pick one of the smaller trails. Also, the car next to us was broken into and there are a lot of signs warning you to keep valuables out of sight.
Overall this is a great park and we will be back to try some of the other trails.
11/15 11:18pm
Shoreline Dog Park
We came here on a Sunday afternoon for some doggie playtime after checking out Castro Street. This is a large fenced dog park with areas for both big and small dogs. There is a double gated entry, water, waste bags, a porta pottie, and a shade covered picnic table.
We met a number of other friendly owners and dogs. We will be sure to come back on our next trip to Mountain View.
11/8 11:51pm
Plaza De Paws
This is a great pet boutique (dog & Cat) in downtown Burlingame. It is one of the larger local pet stores I've been to with a large selection of doggie beds, toys, collars, bowls and more. Be aware that there is a cat at the store. Fortunately, my dog didn't see it.
11/8 11:48pm
Bayside Park Dog Park
We came here on a Sunday afternoon for some off leash fun. I'm giving it four bones because it has pretty much everything you could want: double gated entry, small dog area, water, time out area (first time I've seen that). There weren't many people here and it could use a bit of landscaping but other than that it was great.
Also, the park is also right on the water so you can enjoy the bay trail as well.
9/27 9:33pm
Carlton Court Dog Park
There isn't anything fancy about this dog park but it does have everything you need. It is fully fenced so it is a good place to take your puppy. The park is paved so your dog won't get too dirty.
9/17 11:53am
Quail Lodge
Update: Quail Lodge is scheduled to close on 11/16/09. Golf course will remain open.
Quail Lodge is an upscale golf resort about 10 min from the heart of Carmel. It isn't the newest property but the rooms are nicely appointed with flat screen tvs and plush beds. The resort includes two pools, Bocce ball court, golf, gym, large bar, and more.
It would be hard to come by a more dog friendly hotel. They offer a special doggie package for an extra $30 that includes a dog bed, food & water bowls, placemat, travel bowl, squeeky toy, poop bags, and Carmel dog-friendly guide. The travel bow, toy, bags, and guide are yours to take home.
All of the staff were amazingly dog friendly and greeted us with smiles when we returned from our day of exploring. We brought our pooch along to have a drink on the outdoor patio at the bar. The next morning we were able to take him to complimentary breakfast with us.
This place is worth checking out for dog owners and non-dog owners alike.
9/13 11:01pm
Cesar Chavez Park
We went over to Berkeley today to check out Cesar Chavez park. This park has some stiff competition with so many other great dog parks nearby (Pt. Pinol, Pt. Isabel) but I have to say it holds its own. The off-leash area is a short walk from the entrance. On the way through the park we saw families riding bakes and flying kites. The off leash are is large and seemed to be fully fenced. There was water and poop bags available at the entrance.
Although Pt. Isabel is great with all of its amenities, I enjoyed the varied terrain of Cesar Chavez a bit more. It also doesn't hurt that this park is a bit closer to SF.
9/12 7:13pm
Sunol Regional Wilderness
Sunol Wilderness is definitely one of the best parks in the East Bay. It has a rich variety of terrain including rolling hills, steep inclines, and wooded ravines. At Sunol you can find a hike for any level of difficulty.
We visited Sunol at the end of April and were surprised at the temps in the 90s. There is no water available in the park so be sure to pack plenty. Also, many of the trails lack shade so be sure to pack sunscreen and check the weather forecast. Finally, be aware that there are cows in parts of the park. Our pup decided to let out of few big barks before I told him that it wasn't a good idea to make the mommy cows angry.
9/12 7:00pm
Ocean Beach
We visited Ocean Beach on a hot sunny San Francisco afternoon. The beach was full of families enjoying the day. Although, this beach is the biggest in San Francisco it didn't seem to have enough room for the dogs and families. I'm sure it is great on the normal foggy SF days but I'd head to a different dog beach on a sunny day.
After the beach we headed over to Park Chalet which was a great place to grab a beer with your dog and enjoy some live music.
9/12 6:54pm
Baker Beach
I think this is my new favorite beach in SF to visit with my dog. Fort Funston may be the best beach for dogs but this is the best beach for dogs and owners. On a sunny San Francisco day you'll find half of the city here relaxing and enjoying the view of the Golden Gate bridge. The beach is long and wide with plenty of room for dogs, families, and sun bathers.
9/7 3:20pm
Piccino Coffee & Espresso
This is a no nonsense neighborhood coffee stand. They've got a small bench outside and another one inside. If you need your Bluebottle coffee fix this is the place to get it in Dogpatch. Grab your coffee and head over to Esprit park for some doggie playtime.
8/25 8:25pm
Duboce Park
This is an unfenced park in the middle of the city. On a nice weekend day you'll find dogs and people enjoying the park. Be aware that it isn't fenced and there is a lot of traffic.
8/23 12:48pm
Wildcat Canyon Regional Park
Like many of the East Bay parks Wildcat Canyon has rolling grassy hills with great views. Dogs can be off leash in most of the park but be aware that there may be cows loose. When hiking along the ridge it can get quite windy so bring a light jacket even if it is warm. Also, water is only available at the entrances so bring plenty.
8/22 5:29pm
Victoria Manalo Draves Park
This is a nice neighborhood that the local dog owners use. Dogs are unofficially allowed on the grassy hill in the middle of the park and owners meet on week nights after work. There is a dog water fountain and the park is fenced (although the gate is left open). If you're in the neighborhood or at SF Puppy Prep it is worth checking out this park.
7/31 7:46am
Nunziato Field Dog Park
Not the prettiest place (no grass - heck, it's somerville), but many dogs here often, and a good dog owner community, right in the heart of town.
7/30 5:55pm
San Diego Padres Petco Park
Here are the details for the San Diego Padres Dog Days of Summer baseball 2009.
Date of event: Tuesday, August 18th
Applications available: Monday, June 8th
Date applications due: July 24th
Applications will be available at all San Diego area PETCO Stores.
To be considered the applicant must submit a completed application, sign the waiver on the back on the application and submit a copy of the dog’s current vaccinations. The dog must be at least 6 months old and must have had a rabies vaccination.
For more information, call the "Dog Days of Summer" hotline at (619) 795-5198
Don't forget to add your review and photos to Fido Factor after the game!
7/28 10:11pm
Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve
This is a great place to take your dog out for a good long hike since they allow them off leash. In addition to hiking you can also mountain bike and horseback ride here. There is a nice mix of terrain for any fitness level and on our recent Sunday trip it felt like we had the place to ourselves. Cows graze in the open grassland while just over the hill is a wooded canyon. After you're done hiking head on over to the nearby In and Out as a reward.
Like much of the East Bay this park gets very hot in the summer and has little shade so it is best visited in cooler seasons.
7/28 3:47pm
China Basin Park
This an ok spot to walk your dog if you live in the neighborhood and need to mix things up a bit. It has a nice view of the ball park but can get really windy. Captain and I make it one of the stops on our walk around the hood rather than an actual destination. FYI, the drawbridge over Mission Creek is pretty loud so your dog might get a bit scared on the trip here.
If you've got kids there is a great t-ball park here that I've never seen anyone use.
Also, you probably want to avoid this park around baseball game times.
7/28 3:44pm
Rodeo Beach
Just over the bridge from San Francisco, this is a great beach to take your dog out to frolic. The beach is surrounded by steep hills on both ends and a marshy area behind so there is little chance your pooch will escape. Dogs are allowed off leach under voice control, just don't let them disturb the wildlife.
After you're done enjoying the beach do some hiking on the surrounding trails. You can't beat the views from on the hills, great for locals and tourists alike.
7/28 2:38pm
Doran Beach
On our weekend trip to Bodega Bay and Tomales Bay we stopped at Doran Beach to let Captain get some exercise. From Highway 1 you drive down a winding road and through a marsh before getting to the park gate. The entry fee was $5 and $1 for the dog. We weren't sure we wanted to pay just to get a short walk in but it ended up being worth it.
Doran Beach has a number of parking areas with beach access as well as a picnic area and campground. The beach was long and curving and bordered by grassy dunes. Unfortunately, it is an on-leash beach but Captain still managed to get his exercise by digging in the sand.
We didn't see any running water although I'm sure there is some by the campground. At least one of the parking areas had poop bags available.
7/28 2:19pm
Kehoe Beach
Last weekend we went to Point Reyes National Seashore to check out Kehoe Beach. It was sunny at Tomales Bay but as we drove along the winding roads of Point Reyes the fog laid like a down blanket on the hills and rolling pastures.
The trail head is just to the left of the Kehoe Beach sign. There is a not-so-fresh toilet there as well as trash and recycling. Hike down the 1/4 mile trail along a green marsh to the beach. The beach was large and covered in fine sand. Our dog loved sprinting up and down the hill at the beach.
Like the rest of Point Reyes, Kehoe Beach is rich with wildlife so you should abide by the on-leash policy. This was a tall order for our active Vizsla who is used to running like crazy. However, the natural beauty of Point Reyes more than made up for the leash policy.
There is no running water or poop bags at the beach so bring your own.
Four bones because it is on-leash but at least there are plenty of other dog-friendly places to take your dog in the area.
7/21 11:32pm
Crissy Field
Everyone loves Crissy Field! This beach is dog-friendly and people friendly. On nice days it seems like half of San Francisco is here. One end of the beach is designated as the dog section although dogs are pretty much all over the place. It is a great spot for a picnic, getting your feet wet, or enjoying the view of the sailboats and Golden Gate Bridge.
7/20 12:18pm
Point Pinole
This is a hidden gem of the East Bay. The park has a wonderful variety of habitats including marshes, large open fields, Eucalyptus groves, and beaches. There is a mix of packed gravel and paved trails throughout the park that are perfect for biking, hiking, horseback riding, and running.
Like many East Bay parks Point Pinole is dog friendly and many of the trails are off-leash. My pup had a great time taking in the views, walking the trails, frolicking through the tall grass. If you're looking for more of a dog-park, Point Pinole is just up the road from Point Isabel.
Update: Just to clarify, this is more of a place for hiking than a specific dog park. However, like many of the East Bay parks it is off leash in the undeveloped areas. You've got to walk into the park a bit to get to the off leash areas. If you want an easy hike this is a great spot. If you want want a dog park Point Isabel is much better and if you want a tough hike Wild Cat Canyon is good. All three are in the same vicinity.
Also, the East Bay Vizsla group frequently meets here on Sunday mornings for off leash fun.
7/20 10:57am
Fort Funston
Fort Funston has to be one of the best dog beaches in America. The place is like an off-leash Disney World for dogs. Park in the large parking lot off Skyline Blvd. As you walk down toward the beach there is a water fountain. You can stroll through the park and make your way down to the expansive beach. The first time my puppy experienced the sand he was in puppy heaven. Step cliffs boarder the beach and for the most park it is only used by dog owners. You can also watch the hang-gliders launching off the cliffs.
Along with Point Isabel I'd say that Fort Funston is one of the best dog parks in the Bay Area and beyond.
7/19 4:41pm
Apple Store
I just got back from getting a new iPhone for my wife at the Apple store. The staff was super friendly and happy to have Captain come in. He's a medium sized dog but did fine in the store. Most of the merchandise is up high so I didn't have to worry about him causing trouble. I'd give them five bones but it is a pretty busy store so maybe not the best place if your dog isn't well behaved and well socialized.
7/14 11:22am
John Mclaren Park
This isn't the best maintained park in the city but it is big and has a lot of diverse habitats. There are two duck ponds, one that the dogs swim in. I didn't really want my pup going in and he wasn't too interested. The water was murky and full of duck poo but plenty of other dogs seemed to be having a good time swimming. Never the less my puppy came down with Ghiardia after out visit.
There are plenty of hills and open fields to frolic in, as well as great views. We spent a couple hours exploring. I would definitely come back although it is a bit of a drive from where I live.
On the down side the neighborhood isn't that great. A large group of people were playing bones, drinking and getting a bit rowdy when we left at dusk. Given the drinking and the fact that dead bodies have been pulled out of this park, I probably wouldn't stick around after dark.
7/12 10:30pm
Esprit Park
There isn't a lot going on at this park which makes it a good place to let your dog run off leash. It isn't fenced but the park is large and there isn't much traffic around. No running water here so bring some for your pooch.
I'm giving this park three bones because it could use a few more upgrades (running water, fenced dog run, maybe some kid stuff) and isn't really near anything but if you're a dog lover it is perfect.
7/12 8:00pm
Liverpool Lil's
After an afternoon of doggie fun in the Presidio and at Mountain Lake park we stopped at Liverpool Lil's for a late lunch. There was plenty of outside seating and a water bowl for the dogs. The burger hit the spot and the fries were perfectly crispy.
7/12 7:46pm
Mountain Lake Dog Park
This is a great dog park on the edge of the Presidio. The dog park is not fenced but it is separated from the people parts of the park. It has a nice large field of wood chips and plenty of water. After you're done at the dog park you can take a walk around the lake or explore the Presidio.
7/9 5:50pm
South Beach Park
This park has something for everyone. During the middle of the day you'll find the half dozen SOMA toddlers playing on the fenced in playground. Around 5:30 the dogs show up for some off-leash frolicking on the large grassy area. The rest of the time tourists, Giants fans, and office workers relax in the park or stroll along the marina.
The park is also right next to Java House so you can grab a beer or sandwich to enjoy in the sun. For thirsty dogs, the dog water fountain at the end of the park is a great feature.
This park is right by a busy road so your dog should be under strict voice control.
7/7 12:09pm
Bernal Heights Dog Park
This is a great spot to take your pup out. Captain loved running on the steep grassy hills and checking out the amazing views of the city. The park has some flat rocky areas where the dogs can run around and a doggie water fountain when it is time to cool off. After a day at the park check out some of the great doggie friendly places on Cortland Ave the ever tasty including Progressive Grounds.
7/7 12:03pm
Corona Heights Park
You can't beat the view of the city from the top of the park. You can see all of downtown, the Castro, Diamond Heights, etc. This isn't a big park but it has a lot to offer. There is a great fenced in dog area as well as an open grassy area. Also, the park is a short walk from Buena Vista Park.
7/7 11:54am
Mission Creek Dog Park
The primary shortcoming of this place is the gravel surface. When the place is dry my puppy comes home with a light coating of dust. When it is wet he comes home totally covered and unrecognizable. Also, the park could be slightly bigger.
On the upside, it is great to have a fenced dog park in the neighborhood and it has all the amenities you would expect: bags, water, bench.
Be aware that they are currently doing some construction next to the park so things can be a bit noisy.
7/4 5:20am
San Francisco Giants Baseball
At&t park is one of the best baseball stadiums I've been to. It has beautiful views of the water and when you actually get a sunny day in SF going to games is a blast. You and your dog can peek in on the game from the standing room area behind the park. They also have an official "Dog Days of Summer" every year when you can bring your dog with you to the game. Check it out this year on August 1st.
Here's the rules
RULES AND INFORMATION
* We reserve the right to refuse entry to any dog.
* Waiver forms must be completed before entering the ballpark.
* Only one dog per adult, please. Any participating dog must be at least 6 months old.
* Use good judgement regarding the temperament of your pet so that this event will be enjoyable for everyone. Do not bring your dog if it is unpredictable in crowds, with other dogs, and/or strangers.
* All dogs MUST have ID Tags, be on a leash at all times and have current rabies vaccination.
* Dogs and their owners will be restricted to a certain area within the ballpark.
* Be courteous and responsible.
* Please pick up after your dog.
* Veterinarian will be on hand in case of an injury or emergency.
* Please do not bring a dog in heat.
For general infomation or additional question, please call 415.972.2356.
7/4 5:13am
21st Amendment Brewery
21st Amendment does not normally have outside seating. On game days and for special events they open up a beer garden in the alley next door. Unless you want your dog mauled by drunken Giants fans I wouldn't recommend going here for their dog-friendliness. On the other hand, the food at 21st is good and the beers aren't half bad either.
7/3 1:22pm
Reds Java House
Red's is the classic greasy spoon diner with a killer location. It has a large outside seating area and is a great spot for food & drinks if you're out on the Embarcadero or on your way to the ball game. They make the drinks strong and the PBRs are only $1.75. The food is about what you would expect from a diner. When it gets a bit cold they have two covered tables next to the outside bar.
My pup always gets lots of attention here from the laid back, drunken patrons and stays entertained drooling at the seagulls.
7/3 1:16pm
Carmen's Pier 40
I've eaten here once and I have to say the food wasn't really very good. It was really greasy and overall not that appetizing. On the upside, they have a good happy hour drink special, a bit of a water view, and they're right next to the park.