Why Travel Local?

We have been truly amazed and gracious from the band of customers who have supported our little company throughout the years as part of the "buy local" initiative.

Over the years, we've committed to buy our materials from US vendors, make local dealers a priority, keep our production here in Bellingham, Washington, and employ local designers and talent from the Pacific Northwest. And it's been great. But we leave ourselves asking, "what more can we do to support our local businesses even more?" And the answer is clear: travel local.

Often, the idea of supporting our local communities when a vacation beckons seems to leave our mind. Either we are anxious for a new view, or craving different weather. But there are some major benefits to staying close to home when the long weekends, holidays or vacation time beckon.

Reasons to Travel Local

1. Traveling local allows you to look at your state and community through the eyes of a visitor, trying things you may have never done, even though they are in your own backyard. It's a great time to do that thing you've always wanted to do: try that new restaurant, visit that hot spring or venture out to that new trail. 
2. A "Staycation" is very cost effective because cost of travel and lodging are dramatically reduced. Staying close to home means less gas money, and you either head home at night, or opt for alternative overnight accommodations such as camping, couch surfing, renting a room, or even staying in usual accommodations such as glamping tents, a tepee (found all over the Northwest) or rentable fire watch station (available through the National Forestry Service).
3. Staying close to home means less travel time. Think of it: no lines, no traffic, no crowds, no passport, no customs line, no rest area bathroom stops!
4. When you travel close to home, taking your four-legged companion is easier. There are fewer "potty breaks" along the way, you are more familiar with dog-friendly businesses, and there's fewer arrangements to make ahead of time.
5. Traveling local is less harsh on the environment because it doesn't expel emissions from a plane or long car travel. We give this idea "two paws up" for reducing your carbon paw print.
6. Staying close to home allows you to discover the lesser-known, yet fantastic adventure opportunities right out your back door. You may discover a new trail, a new sport, or a new destination for you and your dog to explore.
7.  During your adventures, you may unintentionally encourage others to check out your new local spot after seeing or hearing about your adventure. This helps promote the local economy even further.

Yes, the sun and sandy white beaches are easily enticing this time of year. But traveling local is an amazing way to explore your local surroundings, while also saving money and time and helping boost the local economy. All in favor of local travel, raise your paw!

Tips for National Park Travel with Your Dog

August 25th marks the 100-year anniversary of the National Park Service, and as outdoors-people, many of us will want to use the anniversary as an excuse to get outdoors and #liveunleashed with our dogs. But the reality of the situation is, most national parks have restrictions on how our best friends can join us.

So what do you do when your best adventure traveler is a four-legged companion? Here are a few tips for national park travel with your dog.

Tips for National Park Traveling with Your Dog

Do your research beforehand

Some national parks allow dogs; it’s simply restricted to particular areas or trails. For example, the Grand Canyon National Park is actually a place you can take your best friend, but only on the rim trails, and always on a leash. Doing your research is imperative! There might not always be a sign to tell you where your dog is allowed to go, and fines can get hefty. Stay informed and be a responsible dog owner so that dogs and their human companions can enjoy these areas for years to come.

Some parks have kennels

The number of national parks with kennels for your dog to stay at while you see the whole park may feel limited, but be sure to check out nearby cities, too. Sending shot records to these facilities will be a part of the process, so again—do your research and plan your trip to allow your dog to have fun with you in the accessible areas, and so you can have your own time to explore the backcountry or steeper trails.

Know your campground rules

Camping near or inside a national park is half the fun! While most campgrounds allow dogs, they cannot be left unattended. Again, look into pet-friendly lodging in the area. For example, the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia has lodging, allows dogs inside their campgrounds, and even allows leashed dogs on most of their trails. It can be done!

Pet-friendly hostels or hotels

Let’s say after you hit the trail for the day you’d like to cozy up in a bed instead of inside a tent. There are hotels and hostels out there that allow dogs. While extra fees may apply, consider the option because it solves the where-to-leave-your-dog problem. If your dog is kennel-trained, that’s a big bonus! Having a safe place for them to rest in while you’re out will aid their comfort. Try aiming for an individual room in a hostel. If your dog is prone to barking while you’re away, try a safe citronella spray collar.

Pack accordingly

For those times when your dog can join you inside the park, don’t forget to pack a collapsible water/food dish, plenty of water for the two of you, snacks, your dog’s harness or collar, and the appropriately-sized leash (parks usually require a 6-footer or less). Don’t forget the bed or kennel for sleeping the day out in the sun off and never keep your dog in a car in seemingly mild temperatures. Even if the temperature outside is only 75 degrees, it can quickly reach unbearable temperatures inside.

Follow these tips and feel prepared for the adventure you can’t wait to take with your dog this summer! Happy 100-year anniversary, national parks!