A traveler heading Northwest on Highway 128 from Cloverdale – the Northernmost city in Sonoma County — faces an hour plus of winding, tree-lined blacktop before reaching the coast. This two-lane highway leads through the small towns of Yorkville, Boonville, Philo, and Navarro, ending in a stretch of old growth redwoods so thick you’ll think it never ends … and then it does. As Highway 128 becomes Highway 1 and you enter the small town of Albion, the sky opens up, and there is a scene of incredible beauty: a great expanse of ocean, clear blue water lapping over dark grey rocks and reaching out over white sandy beaches. What could possibly complete this picture? Your dog, of course, head out the window, eyes big with wonder, mouth open and tongue lolling with excitement and anticipation of the fun times to be had on the Mendocino Coast.
The Mendocino Coast is a dog lover’s paradise with many pets-allowed accommodations and hiking trails. “We’re not just pet friendly, we’re pet passionate,” says Jon Glidewell, General Manager of the Beachcomber Motel and Spa in Fort Bragg. The Beachcomber, which backs right up to the ocean and a walking trail, not only has dogs-allowed rooms, it has special dog suites each with its own doggy door and little fenced yard. No more late nights walking down flights of stairs to take your dog to potty! Another big bonus: they recently completed construction of a dog park on the property, so your canine companion has a place to romp off leash.
Like shopping? Many of the unique shops on the Mendocino Coast feature animal-themed gift items like this custom Dachshund piece (see photo) from Pacific Glassworks in Fort Bragg. You can see the artists demonstrating their glass blowing craft most weekends at the store. In addition to the beautiful glass art, you can find the work of photographers, painters, sculptors, and jewelers to enjoy, and perhaps you’ll bring one home. While dogs are not allowed in the stores – think glass statues and wagging tails – they may sit with you in many of the outdoor cafes and of course join you for leashed walks downtown and in the nearby parks.
If you’re like many dog owners, you’ll want to check out the local humane society while traveling. The Mendocino Coast Humane Society is located on Summers Lane right off of Highway 20 in Fort Bragg. Incorporated in 1987, MCHS moved to their new shelter location in 2001. When the County closed their Fort Bragg facility in 2010, MCHS became the only provider of animal sheltering services on the Coast. They offer a variety of dogs for adoption both at the shelter and via the Mobile Pet Adoption vehicle which goes out into the community every Saturday, weather permitting.
Every July, MCHS and the pet-loving businesses of the Coast come together for their annual Animal Celebration. Held at Todd’s Point off of Highway 1 on the Mendocino Coast Headlands, this outdoor fair features many activities including dog training demonstrations, a petting zoo, horse rides for kids, and a microchip clinic. There are a number of vendor booths to shop from and over 100 raffle prizes including wine and gift certificates for meals, lodging, and dog grooming. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you in the festivities, and you can even get a custom photo portrait together to commemorate your day.
Next time you hit the road, be sure to visit the pet-passionate Mendocino Coast, and while you’re there, please come by and visit the humane society. Your new best friend may be waiting for you, and for a walk on the beach.
Brigid Wasson is the Head Consultant with The Path Ahead Animal Shelter Consulting. She provides infrastructure building, management team support, and lifesaving programs for animal shelters across the country. She lives in Sonoma County with four dogs: a Catahoula, an Anatolian Shepherd, a Corgi/Terrier and a Pomeranian/Terrier. Visit her blog at animalsheltersuccess.blogspot.com. For more information visit: animalsheltersuccess.com, mendocinohumane.org, and mendocinocoast.com.
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