Here in Palm Springs, we understand how fortunate we are to have beautiful weather in the winter — that’s why our boutique hotels are often filled this time of year. Many properties welcome four-legged furry friends so they can join your getaway, too.
When you land at Palm Springs International Airport, you will be happy to learn that multiple areas inside and outside the terminal welcome pets. The courtyard has a pet area, playground, water features, and patio seating where humans can appreciate art scattered throughout the open-air space. Outside, there are more pet areas, each one fenced and shaded with grass and wood chips. Waste bags and a sink for handwashing are also provided.
Shop and dine with your canine
Palm Springs is known as a dog-friendly community. With so many outdoor patios, you can take Fido to restaurants all over town. When you make a reservation, just let them know you are bringing your pup, so you are seated on the patio. A cool night? There is nothing to worry about. Restaurants here have outdoor heaters.
Our retail shops are also welcoming. Often, you will find a water dish outside their doors, and don’t be surprised if the purveyor of the store asks if it is all right if they give your dog a treat.
If you’re going to buy souvenirs for everyone back home, you can’t forget a little something for your canine companion. Cold Nose Warm Heart is the largest independently owned retail store devoted to pets in Palm Springs. Even if you don’t have an animal, this is a fascinating store to browse, filled with everything from clothes to CBD treats/oils to an array of toys for the most discriminating pup.
Have a dachshund or know someone who does? Go to Bean Goods in the Flannery Exchange Building. There you can find everything related to dachshunds, from shoes to shirts.
There are also two Bone-N-Scones locations to visit in Palm Springs, and you can head to either one to get dog food and learn more about pet nutrition.
Seeing the sights
Many of you know about VillageFest, which attracts thousands of people each Thursday night in downtown Palm Springs. Feel free to bring your dog along for the evening — just be ready to stop every few steps to have attendees ask if they can pet him.
Dogs are not allowed at Joshua Tree National Park, so if you want to spend the day there, consider reaching out to PoshPetCare. This is a boutique-style daycare with three playrooms, and if your dog needs grooming, they can also arrange a beauty appointment.
Canines can roam leash-free at the David H. Ready Palm Springs Dog Park behind behind City Hall. Unfortunately, the hiking trails in Palm Springs are not dog friendly. This is both for their protection and the desert fauna. As you would expect, there are many dog sitters in Palm Springs, but there is no centralized place to find one and those who are excellent with animals are in demand and booked months in advance. Your best bet is to ask acquaintances in Coachella Valley before you come to town if they have a suggestion for someone to watch your furry friend while you explore the trails.
Pet-friendly boutique hotels abound in Palm Springs
If you plan to bring your dog along on vacation, we encourage you to visit the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels website and select a pet-friendly boutique hotel. Those hotels will probably surprise you with the lengths staff members go to help pups feel welcome and comfortable.
I’ve seen so many of the dogs I sit for plunk themselves down and bask in the sunlight. They get tired of cold, foggy days just like their owners, so do consider bringing them with you.
