Southern California is a place where pets are common, and pet-friendly activities and services abound. The warm climate and diversity of the population make the Southland ideal for pet owners. With that in mind, here are outings in the region that you and your four-footed friend can enjoy.

 

The Culver City Dog Park is a popular destination for canines and their owners. Also known as “The Boneyard,” this park features an acre of running space, separate areas for large and small dogs, water fountains and seating. The park is open from dawn until dusk, and information is available at www.culvercitydogpark.org/main/007_Dog_Park_Site.cfm.

 

For pets and owners who enjoy a scenic walk or a brisk hike, be sure to check out Runyon Canyon Park. This beautiful park includes a number of trails ranging from easy to more strenuous. There is also an off-leash area for dog owners who want to give their pets a little more freedom. Find more information on this Los Angeles County park at www.lamountains.com/parks.asp?parkid=122.

 

Some owners enjoy pampering their pets, and in Southern California there are locations designed for just that type of activity. One of these destinations is Euphuria, which is a full-service salon offering grooming, teeth cleaning, spa treatments and “extra TLC.” The salon is open Tuesday through Saturday. Check out www.euphuria.com/content/index.php for more.

 

For those who have a sweet, friendly and loyal pug in the family, you won't want to miss the annual “Pugtoberfest” event, which is typically held in October. Pugs and their owners can enjoy races, a parade and a costume contest. This year will mark the 14th annual for the event, and more information can be found at www.pugslife.org/events/13th-annual-pugtoberfest.

 

Southern California is known for beaches and oceanfront property. For pet owners, it can be a challenge to find beach areas that are pet-friendly. This makes Rosie’s Dog Beach a unique destination because it's touted as the only off-leash dog beach in the highly populated Los Angeles County. Hours are 6 a.m.-8 p.m. daily, and information on is available at www.hautedogs.org/beach.html.

 

Some activities just aren’t the same when the pet can’t come along. That's why finding pet-friendly activities in Southern California can be so important. For many people, the pet is part of the family, which means that they never want to leave a member of the family behind.