Vacationing with Your Pet in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

More and more vacation spots are becoming pet friendly. You will also find many hotels that now allow you to stay with your dog (and sometimes cats). The chances are pretty good, though, that you've never visited a place as pet friendly as Northern California's Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Accommodations
It's not hard to find a place to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea that allows pets. Nearly every accommodation in the village encourages you to bring along your pet. At the Lamplighter Inn, for example, dogs are welcome to share your cabin and sit with the owners during the evening cocktail hour and morning breakfast. The Carmel Forest Lodge even provides a place to wash your pet in their courtyard. Just make sure you are respectful of those without pets and use bags to clean up after dogs and cats.

Dining
If you are looking to get a bite to eat in Carmel-by-the-Sea, bring your pet along. It is not unusual to see dogs at many of the cafes and restaurants throughout the downtown area. The Cypress Inn, owned by actress and pet lover Doris Day, encourages guests to bring their pets to the restaurant. Its Terry's Lounge has a daily "Yappy Hour," which you can count on Director of Pet Relations Sadie (the resident Chihuahua) to oversee.

Shopping
You don't have to leave your dog at the hotel if you want to go shopping through the quaint village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. As you walk through the streets you will see that you are welcome to bring your dog into many of the stores. You will also find water dishes along the streets to make sure the four legged creatures stay hydrated in the California sun. In addition, there are places specifically for pets, such as Diggity Dog Boutique and Signature Paw Spa, which caters to dogs, cats and horses.

Beach
The beach is just blocks from the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Scenic Road provides a beautiful drive along the Pacific Ocean if you'd like to stay in the car, but you are more than welcome to take your dog out for a walk on the sand. Dogs do not have to be leased on this beach and you will see many of them running around and playing games (like Frisbee) with their owners as the weather is sunny and rarely cold most of the year.

Events
Pets are not forgotten when it comes to special occasions in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Bring your dog to holiday events and picnics. In October, you can even have fun together by marching in the annual Halloween Pet Parade, as the main thoroughfare is closed down for floats and costume clad animals. You are also welcome to bring your dog along to the Run in the Name of Love Father's Day event, where you can get your pet a shirt and bandana to match your own.