Book Description
The Dog Lover's Companion to California has the inside scoop on the best parks, dog runs, beaches, forest preserves, ski areas, pet-friendly businesses, and much more. Local author Maria Goodavage and her trusty companion Jake have dug up many surprising resources available to dogs in the Golden State, such as baseball games, summer camps, ski areas, and pet parades. For the less outdoorsy dog, there are doggy spas, art openings, and even drive-ins! Packed with illustrations by celebrated cartoonist Phil Frank, as well as helpful maps, up-to-date leash laws, and a useful "paw" ranking system for all locations in the book, The Dog Lover's Companion to California is a pet's best friend.
Customer Reviews:
Decent book, but not a comprehensive guide.......2007-09-08
When I read all the stellar reviews for this book, I thought it was the perfect book for me. We have had our dog for two months, and are now venturing out to different places with her. We bought this book last night (and paid full price for it--fancy THAT) in anticipation of a free-roaming day trip today.
First, I do have to say that creating a comprehensive guide is exceedingly difficult. The number of hotels, restaurants and attractions you'd have to visit...well, it's mind-boggling. However, there are both good and bad points to this book, depending on what you're looking for.
Good Points:
1. Very detailed information about the parks, beaches and recreations areas, complete with an easy-to-read rating system (1 to 4 paws) and a clear indicator of off-leash venues (running dog icon). She also includes parking and entrance tips, park amenities that would appeal to your dog, what trails or areas are dog-accessible, etc. Very good listings. This is the main reason you'd want to buy this book.
2. Detailed information on SOME restaurants and hotels and basic information on others. Just thumbing through the book, it's clear that Maria's favorites get lots of detail. For instance, I was thumbing through the book and Roses's Cafe (page 486) in San Francisco gets a full 2/3 of a page. Of course, there was a story attached to that listing of how Maria was introduced to the place, and her experience with it. Other places just list that there is outdoor seating, dogs are allowed, etc. Your mileage may vary.
3. Coverage of the entire state. More breadth, less depth. However, you would think that the local area editions are more comprehensive. Nope. The Bay Area edition seems to have the same information contained in the California edition.
4. Doggie Diversions. Maria lists some great things to do with your dog aside from parks. Shopping, attractions, fun stuff to do. These are sometimes surprising.
5. Other information. I never knew that you could take a dog onto a San Francisco Muni bus or a Cable Car. Maria includes the requirements (muzzle, non-commute hours for Muni) and costs. I also never knew that Nordstrom's welcomes dogs. Dogs and shopping...oh boy!
Bad Points:
1. Only the parks are on the area map. Okay, so let's say you're in San Jose and need a place to stay, a place to eat, and a place to run your dog. You can look at the map and see where to run your dog, but how so you know where the restaurants are in conjunction to your dog park? Hm. GPS, I guess.
2. Could use more listings for hotels and restaurants. For instance, dogfriendly.com has 22 listings for restaurants in San Jose; the book has TWO. San Jose is a pretty big city, and the inclusion of only two restaurants is pitiful.
3. Place you can't take your dog. In some instances, Maria includes this info. For instance, you can't take your dog to California State beaches. Rats. However, I was thinking of going to Muir Woods yesterday, and the book didn't say whether dogs were allowed or not. This is a major attraction in Marin County. Perhaps Maria should consider a list of major attractions in tourist areas where dogs ARE and ARE NOT allowed. For instance, are dogs allowed on Pier 39 and Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco? Hm. I had to sleuth a bit and read the info on Aquatic Park and the RESTAURANT section...the info was there (the answer is yes).
4. Small nit pick: Listings should include name, address, phone number and THEN the info on why it's good. Sometimes the address info is buried within the text. Most times, it's at the end. A good editor would've made this a bit friendlier. It's a bit of a nit-pick, but it's annoying.
All in all, it's a decent book, but it has its flaws. I think it is better than many of the other books out there (better detailed info than dogfriendly.com's book, and rates each of the parks), but has fewer listings than others. I think it's worth your going to a store to check it out. Even with the good reviews here, I was a bit skeptical, and I needed to compare and contrast the book with others in person to make a final buying decision.
If you have a dog and live in California, you need this book!.......2007-08-11
My dog loves to go places with me. A walk is his all time favorite, and he's always ready to jump in the car and just go -- I swear he knows the new from the old and always gets excited no matter what. Well, I had just about run out of new places to go with him and was starting to get a little bored when I heard about this book. It has opened up our world even more, and in doing so gave me the confidence to explore more with my best friend.
Great book.......2007-08-10
This is definately a book for the car or in my case, my dog's luggage!!! I found a bunch of parks in my area alone I didn't even know were there! I bought this because we take my dog everywhere and I wanted new places to go. This also covers areas where the Bay Area book stops. I even ended up sharing some parks with my friends who have dogs.
For those who can't bear to be away from their dog.......2007-02-18
Bought this for myself, unfortunately just weeks before deciding to leave California and move to the East! Gave it as a gift to a close dog-lover friend who loved it. I think it is a great guide for finding out where all the dog-friendly places are. It would otherwise take years to figure all these things out on your own by simple trial-and-error and networking with dog people. Also great for socializing a new puppy (which is what I bought it for).
I'm sure it used to be great........2006-08-12
Swell book but WAY out of date. This is the 5th printing but I've been unable to verify that there is any new information since 1993. We used it on a trip last week and most of the places we checked out had changed their policy or had gone out of business.
Book Description
The Dog Lover's Companion to New England has the inside scoop on the best parks, dog runs, beaches, restaurants and pet-friendly businesses throughout the six states that make up New England—Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Local authors, JoAnna Downey and Christian J. Lau, along with their trusty canine companions George and Inu, dish on such doggy delights as the Boston Common Dog Wash, New Hampshire's Walk for the Animals, and include information on pup-friendly movie and music nights, and off-leash areas. Packed with helpful maps, details on up-to-date leash laws, and a useful "paw" ranking system for all locations in the book, The Dog Lover’s Companion to New England is truly a pet’s best friend.
This special breed of guidebook features extensive information on everything from the best hound-hospitable parks, beaches, and recreation areas to the dog-friendliest restaurants, hotels, and shops in select regions across the country. Each guide features the illustrations of celebrated San Francisco Chronicle cartoonist Phil Frank.
Customer Reviews:
not as useful as I hoped.......2007-06-26
I was expecting more. I was hoping for more places to stay overnight with a large dog. I have a golden retriever and wanted to include him in more of our activities, but this listed stuff that was out of our way or less quality than places I already know. Some new places to try, but I wouldn't recommend anyone to buy this book. It is a nice idea, but nothing new.
Some real problems with this vlume.......2007-01-19
Reading these positive reviews I almost hesitated to post a rather negative review; however, I feel it important to point out some problems with this particular volume.
My work keeps me on the road for much of the year and my dog often accompanies me on these trips. Locating dog friendly properties is sometimes a challenge so I was pleased when a friend gave me this book as a gift. Unfortunately, I found the book rife with errors, misinformation and glaring omissions. As the authors correctly point out, it is vital to verify the rules for an individual property prior to leaving home in order to avoid disappointment and inconvenience. Properties change hands; situations alter and rules change without warning. While reading through the book I kept returning to verify the publication date since so many entries were very out of date. This particular issue was published in 2004. In a number of places throughout the book recommendations for lodging and food include properties that closed as much as seven or eight years prior to the publication date. In New England there are several Inns that cater to dog owners offering special programs and amenities for dog owners and their pets. The properties that I am aware of have all been in operation for at least eight to ten years. Yet no mention is made of them. Odd.
I think the bottom line of this book and on any similar books is that the dog owner who chooses to travel with his/her pet, must do their own research prior to hitting the road and must verify all information listed on any web site or in any book. Perhaps it is simply impossible to write a book such as this and hope that any of the information will remain current upon publication.
A MUST for any dog owner in New England!.......2003-01-07
As a resident of Connecticut, I found it a daunting task to find places where my dog was accepted. This book took all the guess work out of who allows them and makes life a LOT easier! I was also surprised to find a few eateries in my own town which allow patio eating with my furry friend, which is a welcome surprise. Definitely, any dog owner who lives in New England or is planning on a visit here needs this book. It is much more extensive than most other dog travel guides, including a ranking system and descriptions of all places included, as well as some cute anecdotes of the authors' own experiences with their pooches at these places.
you will never want to leave them home again!.......2002-08-06
Like most people we love new england and especially the berkshires (lenox,stockbridge,ect)or a gettaway up to maine. I was always jealous of people that I meet with their dogs, and always yearn to go on vacation with our pets instead of worrying how they are doing at home with a petsitter or in a kennel somewhere. now, thanks to this book I never realized how many hotels and b&b's allowed pets! this book makes travels with your fido so much easier and they wont just be sitting in the hotel room bored, either. There are so many places for them to go to that are mentioned in this guide book, they can enjoy themselves as well. (after all, they are on vacation too, right)?
My dogs and I thank would like to thank the authors of this book from the bottom of our hearts! thank you, thank you!!cant wait to buy your new edition about New York!
Great Resource.......2002-07-30
I found this book exceptionally helpful for planning our vacation with our dogs. The places listed are great for taking your dog, and the book contains a variety of subjects: places to stay, places to eat, places to go have fun (hiking, beaches, etc.), and also lists events that are happening in the area. The only problem I had was that some prices have changed, and that there was some inside information omitted; for example, the beaches in Gloucester are leash free after the life-guards have left, even though the signs at the beach say "no dogs allowed." We missed out on some serious beach time because we didn't know that tidbit until the end of our visit. Just make sure you follow up (they include phone numbers for every spot listed) if you're counting on price or hours or something.
Book Description
The Dog Lover’s Companion to Florida has the inside scoop on the best parks, restaurants, accommodations, recreation spots, and pet-friendly businesses in the Sunshine State. Expert authors Sally Deneen and Robert McClure and their trusty companion Maggie have dug up many surprising resources available to dogs in Florida, such as an eight-foot-tall "digging mountain," the nation's largest dog park, pet bakeries, and Everglades airboat rides. Packed with helpful maps, up-to-date leash laws, and a useful "paw" ranking system for all locations in the book, The Dog Lover’s Companion to Florida is truly a pet’s best friend.
Customer Reviews:
A Must have for Dog Lovers in Florida.......2007-07-12
If you love your dog and you plan on taking them to Florida this book's for you. It has a handy reference guide depending on where in Florida you are.
Gunner July, 2007
updated Florida Companion guide.......2007-03-22
We already had the 2003 edition, but decided to purchase the updated version, was a little disappointed. There wasn't that much difference in the edition's, although it is a very good book. We could have actually gotten by with the 2003 edition. The book is actually one of the better dog companion guides out on the market. We are able to visit places, we might otherwise have missed. We have been to some beautiful parks and beaches that are dog friendly in FLorida, and we found them through this book. By all means, if you are in the Tampa area, it is very dog friendly. One of our favorite places is Fort Desoto Park, near St Petersburg, which has a huge dog park and dog beach and everyone is so nice. It is a lot of fun. some good stuff in this book.
Arf! Who wouldn't want to travel with this guide?.......2006-08-12
When I lived in Florida, I traveled extensively with Keesha, my 45-pound chow mix. I tried other guides, including those from auto clubs. They offer you the bare bones information.
Then I met Sally Deneen and Robert McClure, who shared their Dog Lover's Companion. Being a certified grinch, I held off reviewing till I had a chance to use this book. Readers of my reviews will know my down-to-earth, honest, no-holds-barred style.
To my great relief, I *loved* this book. I used an earlier edition extensively when living in Florida, when I had to make trips to places all over the state. I found amazing dog-friendly places in Fort Lauderdale, where I was living. When I visited Gainesville, I couldn't have survived without this book -- everything from where to get a burger to where to find a dog park. The information about each place is complete and accurate. For example, the authors clerly identify Dogwood park as dog heaven -- and their right.
Even if you're not heading for Florida this trip, you'll learn a lot from the authors' introrduction to traveling with a dog. For instance, many hotels inisist "small dogs only" but their Maggie was a 50-pound German shepherd.. As they say, "Apparently to some hoteliers, dogs are just walking poop machines with fangs." (How can you read that without laughing out loud?)
Deen and McClure offer a number of strategies, such as (a) Just ask if you can bring "the dog" and (b) capitalize on the fact that most motel owners "aren't too familiar with dog weights."
A small dog? "She's only 50 ounds."
Is that small? "Well, she's certainly not big. Half the size of a regular German shepherd!"
Now is that practical advice or what? I've applied these tactics myself (and I'd add, when a clerk sees a dog can do a "sit" and "down," they assume only the best).
But what makes this book truly a dog-lovers book is the way the authors manage to spice up each description. It's hard to imagine anything duller than a description of a hotel or restaurant. But who can resist:
p 240-241: "The bones of extinct animals have been found at this national, natural landmark, and the lush surroundings are bound to keep wet noses twitching."
p 421: "The muddy sand can be goopy...so bring a towel to wipe all paws..."
p 181: "Your dog can hope for crumbs from your free breakfast of waffles, fruit and other eats..." instead of just "A free breakfast comes with the room."
p 187: "The sand feels very flat and hard under the paws at this St Johns County park..."
p 433: "Water dogs will appreciate this break from the usual Pinellas prohibitions on pooches..."
Get the idea? Even if you're not heading to Florida anytime soon, you'll have trouble putting down this book. Don't miss the section on Palm Beach (dah-ling!) and enjoy a cameo of John Grogan (before he wrote the mega-best-seller Marley and Me). And then there's Brandi, mascot of the Broward County Humane Society, where I adopted my own dog.
But if your travel plans call for Florida, and if you've a dog-lover, you must pick up this book. Your dog won't forgive you if you don't!
A five paw book! A great guide to the good dog life........2005-12-09
This book is a great resource for those who want to see Florida and still bring along their best friend. A lot of the book is lists of restaurants and hotels that take dogs, but it also has many tips on local dog parks, state parks, and other Florida attractions that are accepting of four legged patrons. We've already found some local attractions to visit with our dog that we would have never found without this book. (At least it would have taken us much longer to find them!) I have really enjoyed this guide. My only advice to others looking to buy this book is that they should know the book mainly references outdoor attractions (parks, beaches, and recreation areas).
My dog's favorite book!.......2005-11-08
My beagle, Joey, loves this book almost as much as I do! It has made his life so much more fun. Before I bought the Dog Lover's Companion to Florida, our lives outside the house consisted of leashed walks around neighborhood parks. My dog was bored, and I felt guilty. He needed more in his life. Now thanks to this great book, we've discovered really great parks that allow dogs off leash, and they're not that far away. Plus we now scout out better leashed parks thanks to the book's paw-rating system! He and I are both well exercised and sleep better at night!
Best of all, we can eat together. This book offers all kinds of dog-friendly restaurants. Now I don't feel guilty leaving Joey behind when I meet friends for lunch. I just refer to the book, find a dog-friendly restaurant, and he comes right along. My favorite is a really fun one called Mustard's Last Stand -- it's a hot dog stand that's super dog friendly. The owner even hosts doggy adopion events there.
The book is well written and really fun to read. I read it and dream of vacations we can take in the future. In fact, my fiance and I are planning a romantic getaway to Key West soon, and guess who's coming along? Yup, Joey! We don't want to leave home without him. We've found an awesome B and B, and it looks like there are plenty of places to walk Joey and to eat with him. No kennel for Joey! Thank you, Florida doggy book authors!
Book Description
The Dog Lover's Companion to the Bay Area has the inside scoop on the best parks, dog runs, beaches, forest preserves, restaurants, pet-friendly businesses, and much more. Local author Maria Goodavage and her trusty companion Jake have dug up many surprising resources available to dogs in the Bay Area, such as baseball games, cable-car adventures, ferry trips, and wineries. For the less outdoorsy dog, there are bookstores, cafes, and even drive-ins! Packed with illustrations by celebrated cartoonist Phil Frank, as well as helpful maps, up-to-date leash laws, and a useful "paw" ranking system for all locations in the book, The Dog Lover's Companion to the Bay Area is truly a pet's best friend.
Customer Reviews:
Bay Area.......2007-08-10
This book is really good. I found several places to take my dog for a day trip. I was surprised that this book did not cover Monterey/ Carmel or Santa Cruz areas. I was disappointed with that so I ended up buying the California book too.
So much better than City Dog.......2006-12-26
This book rocks! I love it! It's thorough, informative, fun to read and overall just a wonderful guide. My only regret is that I bought City Dog first, a book that was just terrible. Live and learn!
A lifesaver.......2005-09-29
I just moved to Walnut Creek, CA for work. This book is amazing! It is helping me find my way around the Bay area and letting my pups get some exercise in the dog parks along the way.
Our bible too!.......2005-04-04
When I first moved to California from the midwest with my dog we were lost as to what to do with him. We used to have property and didn't have to worry about dog parks and could leave him at our parents house when we went on vacation. Well, time came for a family getaway here and we were beside ourselves thinking about kennels.
Just in time someone gave me a copy of the Dog Lovers Companion to California and also an older version of the Dog Lovers Companion to the Bay Area. I could not believe our luck! These books are chuck full of hotels, inns, parks, beaches, lots and lots of places, that we realized there's no reason to leave Frank behind! Since that fun vacation we have used the books to find loads of dog friendly places. It even has restaurant that allow dogs outside with you. We've stayed at beautiful inns and even taken horse and carriage rides with Frank thanks to the books.
Parks are ranked on a four paw scale and have an easy to see leash free symbol. The writing of both books is so fun that I would read it just for kicks sometimes. The author is funny and slightly irreverent but only in the best way, a way that helps readers really understand a place for better or worse.
The information is extremely accurate. I've read that this is a doggy bible, and it's funny because one day I was sitting at a cafe with Frank reading the book and laughing about an amusing story about the author's dog, and two different people saw the book and raved about it being their bible. I hope the author sees this because she really did make life in California great for our dog and us! Any Californian who cares about their dog should have this book.
An informative delight!.......2005-02-12
I can't say enough about this book. It's a hoot to read, I laugh out loud sometimes. More than this is the excellent infomation provided. I was scared to take my dog to a restaurant but I ended up taking her with me on a lunch date to a cute Union Street San Francisco cafe because of the book. My dog loves it because she gets to go more places now. Five paws for the Dog Lovers COmapnion!
Book Description
The Dog Lover's Companion to the Pacific Northwest has the inside scoop on the best parks, restaurants, accommodations, recreation spots, and pet-friendly businesses in the entire region. Local author Val Mallinson and her trusty companions Cooper and Isis have dug up many surprising resources available to dogs in the Pacific Northwest, such as pet parades, humane society benefits, boutiques, and off-leash areas. Packed with illustrations by celebrated cartoonist Phil Frank, as well as helpful maps, up-to-date leash laws, and a useful "paw" ranking system for all locations in the book, The Dog Lover's Companion to the Pacific Northwest is truly a pet's best friend.
Customer Reviews:
Absolutely Awesome!!!.......2007-06-27
This book is a MUST-HAVE for any dog owner(s) that takes the pooch with em when they go! It has a GREAT rating system and also highlights "people-interests" as well as places to dine, places to stay and of course detailed "dog-places". I say, "Buy one for yourself and one for the dog-lover in your life." Awesome book!
Useful if you live in Western Washington.......2007-02-20
For those of us who like to include our dogs in our adventures, this book is a great guide. It covers western WA & OR, as well as the southwestern corner of BC, Canada. Each of these areas is subdivided into regions such as the Kitsap Peninsula or the San Juan Islands. Within that region dog friendly locations are rated and described. You get the scoop on the good and bad of each location, which helps when you're trying to decide if it's worth visiting. You can also tell which locations allow your dog to be off leash. Places to eat and stay the night are also noted and described.
One thing I didn't like about this book is that it only covers Western WA. I had hoped it would cover Eastern as well.
Dog Lover's Companion is the Best!.......2006-07-05
Found the book to be very informative and accurate, even down to "where the road may seem to end but look to the right and you'll see the sign for" ... etc. Very helpful guide. Loved the advice of the Wonder Weiners!
Book Description
Dogs don't know deceit, dishonesty or ingratitude. They're loyal, loving, don't hold grudges and give undivided attention and affection. When looking for a role model for a healthy and happy relationship, who better to turn to than the family dog? "DogSense" is the study of human relationships through the eyes of the family pooch. Humorous and entertaining photos of our furry friends are accompanied by gentle reminders of how we can keep our own relationships healthy and happy. For dog lovers everywhere, this book is not only a celebration of canine splendor but a wonderful primer on how being a little bit more like our dogs can make our human relationships that much better.
Customer Reviews:
DOG SENSE.......2006-11-14
I JUST KEEP ADDING MORE AND MORE PEOPLE TO MY GIFT LIST THAT WOULD BE THRILLED TO GET SUCH A "COOL" GIFT. EACH PAGE MAKES ME SMILE. THE AUTHOR'S WORDS ARE SOOOO TRUE TO WHAT THE PHOTOGRAPHER SO PERFECTLY CAPTURED. THIS IS A PERFECT GIFT FOR ANY OCCASION, PARTICULARLY HOLIDAY TIME. IT MAILS EASILY (I'VE ALREADY MAILED 10!) AND WILL LOOK JUST GREAT UNDER ANYONE'S TREE. PERFECT BOOK, PERFECT TIME TO BUY SEVERAL; A REAL FUN BOOK!
STOCKING STUFFER/HANUKKAH/JUST GIVING.......2006-11-10
THE BOOK HITS HOME WHEN IT COME TO OUR BEHAVIOR TOWARDS EACH OTHER. KIND OF MAKES YOU THINK. GOOD BOOK
DogSense: 99 relationship tips from your canine companion.......2006-11-10
DogSense is a delightful book to curl up with.Also makes a wonderful book to give as a gift.
Great Book.......2006-11-03
A perfect "coffee-table" book. Cute pictures with great stories to go along. Who can resist dogs? (I'm not just saying this because me and my dog are in it!!)
Book Description
The Dog Lover’s Companion to Chicago has the inside scoop on the best parks, dog runs, beaches, forest preserves, and pet-friendly businesses in the Windy City and neighboring suburbs. Local author Magaret Litman and her savvy pooch, Natasha have dug up many surprising resources available to dogs in Chicago, such as doggy spas, art openings, church and synogague services and off-leash areas. Packed with helpful maps, up-to-date leash laws, and a useful "paw" ranking system for all locations in the book, The Dog Lover’s Companion to Chicago is truly a pet’s best friend.
This special breed of guidebook features extensive information on everything from the best hound-hospitable parks, beaches, and recreation areas to the dog-friendliest restaurants, hotels, and shops in select regions across the country. Each guide features the illustrations of celebrated San Francisco Chronicle cartoonist Phil Frank.
Customer Reviews:
Required reading for Chicagoans with dogs.......2007-09-17
Where can I go? Where can I not? Are dogs allowed on the beach? Can I get a Starbuck's with my dog?
These are all wonderful questions answered in this volume that is extremely easy to navigate. New to a downtown neighborhood, this book has been a lifesaver for me.
Better call first.......2007-06-08
This is a nice little book with lots of info for dog owners in Chicago. However, the first time I took my pooch, Kylie, to one of their recommended dining spots (Brett's Kitchen) I was told dogs weren't allowed and, further, they had no idea why they were listed in this book. However, we did find a great spot nearby on Franklin Street, Kitsch'n River North, where their first order of business was providing Kylie with a large bowl of water. Too bad they are not in the book...we had a great brunch, and Kiley had fun dog-watching.
Littman and Dogs: Even better the second time around!.......2007-03-20
Margret Littman knows Chicago, knows dogs and most importantly knows how to share information in a fun, friendly, organized and entertaining way. Although I thoroughly enjoyed the first edition of her book, the 2nd edition proves to offer even more details, stories and ideas for the Chicago dog lover. As a dog trainer and owner of three dogs myself, I have found myself turning the pages of The Dog Lover's Companion to Chicago with great enthusiasm while making mental notes about new places to explore with my pack. Thanks to Ms. Littman for providing our great city with yet another invaluable book. Can't wait for the 3rd edition!
Four Paws and Two Thumbs Up.......2006-08-09
Littman has really done her homework here--this is without a doubt the best-written and most useful Chicago-dog-owner guidebook I've read. I bought it right after I adopted my dog Molly, and it has provided us with infomation for a wealth of adventures we never would have known of. Littman (accompanied by her trusty companion Natasha) covered the entire Chicagoland metropolitan area, from the expected dog parks and dog-friendly cafes to the surprising (e.g., the dog-friendly acreage at Fermi Lab). Interspersed throughout the book are short sidebars about dog-friendly events, self-serve dog washes, and more.
The most amazing part of the book was the coverage of Chicago's parks. Littman and Natasha visited every single park in the city (and that's a lot of parks!). While all city parks have leash laws, some are more fun to explore (both for canines and humans) than others. Most notable are the three great west side parks Humboldt, Garfield, and Douglas Parks. These enormous facilities were were planned and designed in 1871 by William Le Baron Jenney to form a large park system connected by a series of interlinking grand boulevards. The parks were modified and improved in the early 20th century by Jens Jensen and are a model of Prairie- style landscaping, featuring formal gardens, reflecting pools, lagoons, and boathouses. Sadly, the parks are situated in neighborhoods that had high rates of gang activity and crime for much of the late 20th century. Today, however, crime in these parks and the surrounding areas is falling (albeit slowly) and all three parks are undergoing extensive rehabbing, with both factors bringing an increased number of visitors. Littman gives the specific history of each park and describes not-to-be-missed architectural highlights in each, as well as noting the walking trails and other areas of great interest to the four-legged among us. I found this part of the book the most enjoyable, not only for the fascinating bits of Chicago history, but also for the good writing: Littman keeps the pace going and the text engaging. An absolute must-have for owners of Chicago dogs who want to do more than just play at the local dog park every weekend.
A fun, friendly, information-packed, and useful reference.......2004-03-05
Enhanced with the charming illustrations of Phil Frank, The Dog Lover's Companion To Chicago: The Inside Scoop On Where To Take Your Dog by Margaret Littman is an indispensable guide especially recommended for true dog lovers who live in or near Chicago -- or who plan to vacation there with their beloved pet. Region-by-region examination of dog friendly places, as well as a listing of pet-related resources from veterinary hospitals to groomers, animal shelters, pet taxis, dog walkers, dog bakeries, waste removal services and much more, The Dog Lover's Companion To Chicago is a fun, friendly, information-packed, and useful reference.
Average customer rating:
- Great guide to D.C. and surrounding areas
- Not great
- Can I Kiss the Authors?
- Wonderfully practical guide for dog owners
- No longer have to wonder where to take your pooches
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The Dog Lover's Companion to Washington, D.C. and Baltimore: The Inside Scoop on Where to Take Your Dog (Dog Lover's Companion Guides)
Ann Oldenburg , and
Don Oldenburg
Manufacturer: Avalon Travel Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 General
| Dogs
| Animal Care & Pets
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
New England
| Northeast
| Regions
| United States
| Travel
| Subjects
| Books
Washington, D.C.
| United States
| Travel
| Subjects
| Books
Baltimore
| Maryland
| States
| United States
| Travel
| Subjects
| Books
Travel with Pets
| Specialty Travel
| Travel
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Travel
| Subjects
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ASIN: 1566914728 |
Book Description
Offering the inside scoop on where dogs are welcome, this special breed of guidebook is perfect for travelers and residents who don't want to leave their canine pals behind. Now in its second edition, this illustrated guide provides maps with updated and expanded listings on all the best spots for "ruffing" it with your dog, including new restaurants, hotels, and off-leash parks. Also featured is the popular hydrant-to-hydrant tour of the Washington Mall, day trips out of the city, and visits to festivals, fairs, and exhibitions. "…clever and very comprehensive…. I would highly recommend this book to visitors and residents alike." -- About.com
Customer Reviews:
Great guide to D.C. and surrounding areas.......2007-05-07
I had traveled to Reston, VA with my dogs to go to the Pet Fiesta while there I picked this book up and used it to travel all over the Washington D.C. area with my dogs. I am so glad that I did because I was not sure what I was going to do after the Pet Fiesta was over and this book opened up lots of options and lots of ideas for future trips.
I advise taking a pen with you so you can write in additional things that you find that may not be listed in the book. While at Old Town Alexandria today we ate at an Irish restaurant that had a doggie menu that was not listed in the book but was a must go to if you travel there.
I loved this book and only wish that there was one for my area.
Not great.......2006-08-07
I bought this based on the great reviews, so perhaps it was a let-down because I had high expectations. This is a guide book with a slight dog orientation, but honeselty, I didn't feel like this really gave me much valuable information about living and traveling in the DC area with a dog- other than telling me where parks are (info available on many web sites). The actual dog-friendliness of the parks, and rating system seemed totally off with how I would have rated parks. Seems like they are rated more for person-appeal than dog-appeal.
But maybe I'm just biased as I have a hound and value FENCED off-leash parks above all :)
Can I Kiss the Authors?.......2002-11-07
This is one of my favorite books ever. Really. I moved to the D.C. area with my lab three years ago, and while we were used to having dozens of places to go for various reasons or times, I didn't know where to begin to find good places to take her around our new home. This book was a godsend for finding fun places to go, especially because I found the reviews to give a me a very accurate idea of what sort of place we were going, including what sort of "feel" it might have for dog-friendliness. Some of the features of the book I have found extremely helpful are:
* Birds-eye maps showing where the reviewed locations are in the counties covered (perfect for finding a park near odd places that I might run errands)
* How strict the leash law is followed (this is a biggie for me -- while the authors point out excellent reasons to use the leash, they very helpfully suggest where we can get away without it)
* Rough idea how crowded the area in question might be, and how easy or difficult to get to (varies of course by time of day and season)
* Whether there's a place for doggie swimming
In my area (Sterling/Ashburn, VA) I've found the book to be amazingly comprehensive for my local and outlying areas, and find that the park descriptions have always given me a pretty accurate idea what to expect. The book covers a wide enough range (including some pseudo-local vacation destinations) that I've used it on countless occasions to find nice stopover while on short trips outside my "home turf". Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys finding varied places to visit with their pups.
Wonderfully practical guide for dog owners.......2002-06-01
I bought this book when it first came out for a friend of mine who was moving to Baltimore with her dog. Two years later, I borrowed it from her when I discovered I was moving to D.C. I found it enormously usefull for choosing a dog-friendly neighborhood with good access to parks. The authors understand the basic qualities of a good dog park: safety, space, a group of 'regular' neighborhood go-ers, and access to a good espresso bar for weekend dog walking. Overall, the writers do an excelent job.
I have only a few complaints. One - due to the impossibility of visiting every park in this populous region more than once, I've found that the park's ratings can heavily reflect the day and time of the visit -- not necessarily what the park is like on a typical weekday at 6pm. Also, some park ratings reflect a nice place to go with a small dog on a leash, you won't necessarily have the same experience with your massive Great Dane tugging at every new smell. The writers also disapprove of dogs being off-leash, and rate more lowly some parks that are true jems for those of us with larger dogs that require more exercise.
Overall, a great guide, and certainly unique. A must for all dog owners in this area, particularly if you moving to this region.
No longer have to wonder where to take your pooches.......1999-01-07
I highly recommend this book to dog owners who love to take their little four-legged friend(s) everywhere. It is well organized and the writing style used is perfect for dog lovers.
It covers almost all the parks in the Washington D.C., Virginia and Baltimore. Have you ever looked up a park on a map and it looked huge and perfect for your dog, and when you got there, you and your dog were very disappointing with the park? Well, the review for each park is quite accurate. With this book on hand, you can look up a park and find out if it is suitable for your dog before driving there. It covers important information that a dog owner needs to know about the park/area - such as the poop scoop law and the leash law.
It also contains information (ie. hotel, restaurant, pet stores, etc...) that is very useful for dog owners who like to take their pooches on vacation with them.
Embedded into the book, you will find dog adoption information. The book encourages suggestions from readers. I've already written to the publisher suggesting to include information on various rescue organizations and local animal shelters - a way to help promote pet rescue/adoption.
Book Description
Offering the inside scoop on where dogs are welcome, this special breed of guidebook is perfect for travelers and residents who don't want to leave their canine pals behind. The newest addition to the series, The Dog Lover's Companion to New York City covers the Greater New York City area, including all five boroughs, Long Island, Westchester and Rockland Counties, northern New Jersey and southern Connecticut. Along with illustrations and maps, authors JoAnna Downey and Christian J. Lau profile all the dog-friendliest parks, beaches, recreation areas, hotels, restaurants, shops, events, weekend getaways, and more.
Customer Reviews:
If you have a dog and live in the tri-state area, this book is for you.......2006-08-19
Exellent. I've bought several books in this genre, but "The Dog Lover's Companion to New York City: The Inside Scoop on Where to Take Your Dog (Dog Lover's Companion to New York City)" is the only one that's easy to read, addresses exactly what you're looking for (the best time for you and your dog) and then get you jazzed to try the exciting destinations listed.
Nice asset for dog lovers; however, definitely double check sites.......2006-08-14
Living in an area where there aren't many dog friendly places, yet within commuting distance of NYC, I thought this would be a good book to add to my collection. It has valuable resources like maps and contact numbers for the places they list. There are a variety of places you can go to with your pet.
The reason I gave this book a 3 instead of a 5 is it lists Eisenhower Park as allowing dogs on leash. I have lived near this park for most of my life. To my knowledge they had never allowed dogs. I called to see if they changed their policy - so happy that a nearby place would allow me to bring my pet. Sadly, they confirmed never in their history have they allowed dogs within the park and you can receive a big ticket if you do.
When I contacted the books publisher, I was told that was why the caveat of checking first is in the book. The caveat is nice, but I was still frustrated they listed this source when it was never an option.
I have not had a chance to check on the other sites listed yet.
So in summary, good for dog lovers living near or visiting New York City, but do your homework before you bring your pet.
Book Description
The Dog Lover's Companion Guide to Boston has the inside scoop on the best parks, dog runs, beaches, restaurants and pet-friendly businesses throughout Bean Town. Local authors, JoAnna Downey and Christian J. Lau, along with their trusty companions George and Inu, have dug up many suprising resources available to dogs in Boston, such as the Boston Common Dog Wash, holiday-time photos, pup-friendly movie and music nights, and off-leash areas. Packed with helpful maps, up-to-date leash laws, and a useful "paw" ranking system for all locations in the book, The Dog Lover’s Companion to Boston is truly a pet’s best friend.
This special breed of guidebook features extensive information on everything from the best hound-hospitable parks, beaches, and recreation areas to the dog-friendliest restaurants, hotels, and shops in select regions across the country. Each guide features the illustrations of celebrated San Francisco Chronicle cartoonist Phil Frank.
Customer Reviews:
Not bad, but of mixed value.......2007-01-23
Any travel guide runs the risk of being dated as soon as it is published, and we have found that to be the case with this one, more than once. A couple of parks/beaches/rec areas listed here were quite overgrown, neglected, or just overrated. One beach described as lovely was down a road that was so bad we turned back (and we moved here from Utah, so we're no stranger to the bad back road!). On the other hand, we have learned of several nice dog-friendly parks in our drive-abouts and have found lots of restaurants with outdoor seating using this book as a reference. We learned from this book that dogs are allowed on the T (Boston's public transportation system) during non-rush times, but haven't tried it yet. Their hotel section was helpful but fairly incomplete, as it must be, considering the comprehensive nature of the book.
So pick it up -- it is useful -- but make sure it's not your only reference.
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