Lifestyle | Just For Fun

The 10 Ultimate Dog Friendly Pooch-Paradise States in the U.S.

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Planning a stateside escapade with your furry sidekick? From the hipster hounds of Oregon to the sun-soaked sea dogs of Florida, America is bursting with destinations that’ll have your pup’s tail wagging faster than you can say, “Fetch!” Dive into our list of the top dog-friendly states where every day is a fur-tastic adventure, and your canine companion might just end up with more vacation photos than you!

Oregon: The Hipster Hound Haven

dog with ball.
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Does your dog have a penchant for organic treats and artisanal toys? Oregon, with its dog-friendly breweries in Portland and scenic beach romps in Cannon Beach, is the place to be. Plus, flannel doggy jackets are totally in vogue here. Oregon ranks for the highest pet population in the top 10.

Colorado: For the Mountain Mutt

dog and mountain lake.
Photo credit: Pfüderi via Canva.

If your dog’s idea of a good time is scaling a mountain or chasing after you on a ski slope, Colorado is your canine’s dream. Just remember, altitude can affect anyone, so keep those water bowls full!

California: The Golden State for Golden Retrievers (and all their pals)

golden retriever on beach.
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From dog beaches in San Diego to the pup-friendly patios of Los Angeles, California is where your dog can truly live the celebrity lifestyle. Don’t be surprised if they demand their own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Maine: Lobster and Leashes

dog on beach with ball.
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Does your dog have a nose for seafood? Maine’s coastline offers plenty of sniffing opportunities. And if they’re into camping, the state’s vast forests are a tent-tail-wagging wonderland.

Washington: The Rain-loving Retriever’s Retreat

black lab pup.
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Seattle might be rainy, but that just means more puddles for your pup to play in! With countless dog parks and the evergreen beauty of the Pacific Northwest, it’s a pupper’s paradise.

Vermont: For the Artistic Afghan Hound

Afghan hound and border terrier.
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Does your dog appreciate the finer things in life? Vermont’s artisanal cheese shops and craft breweries are perfect for the cultured canine. Just remember, no alcohol for the pooch!

Texas: Big Hats, Bigger Hearts for Dogs

dogs with sunset in background.
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Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the love for dogs. From the vast ranches where they can run free to the dog-friendly eateries in Austin, it’s a tail-wagging good time in the Lone Star State.

Florida: Sun, Sand, and Salty Sea Dogs

dog near pool.
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If your dog is all about the beach bum life, Florida’s extensive coastline is the place to be. Just remember to pack the sunscreen for those with lighter fur!

Minnesota: Land of 10,000 Lakes and 10 Million Sticks to Fetch

people walking dogs in snow.
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For the water-loving woofer, Minnesota’s myriad lakes offer endless fun. And in winter? It’s a snowy playground perfect for huskies and malamutes.

New York: The Big Apple for the Big Appetite

couple walking dog.
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Central Park, doggy spas, and gourmet pet bakeries – New York City might be bustling, but it sure knows how to pamper a pooch. Just make sure they don’t develop a taste for Broadway, or you’ll be buying two tickets!

In conclusion, the U.S. is a vast playground for every kind of dog, from the beach-loving basset hound to the mountain-climbing mastiff. So, pack those treats, grab that leash, and hit the road for a tail-wagging adventure!

Save Your Dog’s Life by Avoiding These 12 Foods

Pug with popcorn.
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Our dogs bring so much to our lives, and we spend time every day walking them, feeding them, and generally addressing their well-being. But did you know that some commonly found foods – that might in your kitchen or somewhere your dog can reach, right now – could be deadly for your pooch? Here are 12 foods you should never feed or allow your dog to accidentally ingest.

To be prepared, keep the contact details of your local veterinarian, the nearest emergency clinic, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) at hand.

Read: Save Your Dog’s Life by Avoiding These 12 Foods

The Pandemic Left These Animals Homeless – But Malls Have a Solution

White retriever dog pushing a woman with shopping bags in a cart
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Animal shelters are finding new homes for their furry friends in a place you might not expect – malls. As part of an effort to alleviate the burden of increased animal intakes during quarantine, malls across the US are offering empty storefronts to animal rescue groups for free or at a steep discount. The collaborations between malls and animal havens are gaining popularity and have been widely successful in finding homes for pets. Read: The Pandemic Left These Animals Homeless – But Malls Have a Solution

Pawsitive Impact: Can Pets Boost Your Health and Happiness?

dog on beach
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Love hanging out with puppies and kittens? According to the CDC there are myriad reasons why having pets improves our lives.

Thinking about adding a pet to your household? Already have a pet and wondering why they bring so much joy to our lives? Let’s look at the research. Read:Pawsitive Impact: Can Pets Boost Your Health and Happiness?

Why Veterinary Costs Are Soaring – and Half The Time You Can’t Even Get a Vet Appointment!

vets giving anaesthesia to dog.
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Pet ownership continues to get more and more expensive!

According to an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) 2023 review, 38.4% of households in the United States own a dog, and 25.4% of households own a cat. That translates to 65.1 million households with dogs, and 46.5 million with cats, and our animals require veterinary care. Many animal owners are experiencing sticker shock at the vet’s office – and even difficulty accessing a vet as well. Here are the reasons why.

Read: Why Veterinary Costs Are Soaring – and Half The Time You Can’t Even Get a Vet Appointment!

Gas Station Chains With Food So Good It’s Worth Driving Out Of Your Way For

Sheetz Store 1.
Photo credit: Sheetz.

We scoured the Internet to see what people had to say about gas station food. If you think the only things available are wrinkled hotdogs of indeterminate age, and day-glow slushies, we’ve got great, tasty news for you. Whether it ends up being part of a regular routine, or your only resource on a long car trip, we have the food info you need. Let’s look at 6 gas stations that folks can’t get enough of and see what they have for you to eat. Read 6 Gas Station Chains With Food So Good It’s Worth Driving Out Of Your Way For

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