Carmel offers many services for our furry, little companions
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It might surprise some that, in such a small city, so many restaurants allow dogs access into their establishments. Some might be further surprised to hear that our very own beach allows dogs to run freely, without a leash. Yet, both of these are the case; Carmel’s dogs are given a very free rein, as the city’s culture is strongly welcoming of their open presence.

 

A number of restaurants have patios which dogs are allowed to inhabit, like Il Fornaio and Little Napoli, and some restaurants let dogs roam all of the premises, (on a leash), such as the Cypress Inn. Restaurants like Forge in the Forest, and the Hog’s Breath Inn even offer dog menus, so that the furry friends can enjoy a small meal alongside their owners.

 

In the business district, there are several accommodations made for dogs and their owners, like poop bag dispensers on many street corners, and dog treats and water bowls offered at the entrances to businesses along Ocean Avenue. The two pet stores, Diggidy Dog and The Dog House, also have many goods for our four-legged companions, like treats, dog food, tennis balls and dog toys of many varieties.

 

Out of all of the entertainment that Carmel offers, the Carmel beach employs the most liberal dog policy of them all: complete autonomy. The dogs are given the power to run as they please, mingling with other canines, dashing up and down the length of the beach whole, dipping their feet in the water, retrieving their owners’ ball or frisbee, or being interviewed for the Pine Cone’s “Sandy Claws” section.

 

Carmel has prided itself on being one of the most dog-friendly cities in the Monterey County, and their track record looks good so far.

 

Contributed by J. Faxon