Anyone who thinks travel hasn’t gone to the dogs has never read this travel guide. Espinosa’s book not only serves as an invaluable resource for pet-loving travelers, it also sheds light on one of travel’s fastest-growing trends.

Family vacations have expanded from children traveling with adults to dogs accompanying their master. And as Espinosa points out, the practice makes sense — considering the cost of boarding a dog at a kennel, pet fees charged by some hotels are more affordable by comparison.

As her guide illustrates, the travel industry isn’t simply providing convenience for its customers. It’s fully embracing its canine guests, too. Take Loews Coronado Bay Resort as an example. The hotel charges only a $25 cleaning fee and offers Su’ruff Camp (surfing for dogs), Mutt Massages and three outdoor dining venues where dogs are welcome.

Espinosa and her dog, Marcel, personally checked out all the properties included in her book. She uses a “wags” key to rank pooch friendliness and a separate key to summarize the cost for each hotel, restaurant and activity.

The guide highlights pet offerings by each business, but also pays careful attention to the details and amenities that will appeal to the two-legged guests, too. Color photos throughout showcase actual dogs enjoying the hotels and activities.

As my stepdaughter — who took a peek at the book — noted, a few of these properties will leave owners wishing they were a dog. Our favorite: Snug Pet Resort in San Diego, where the 22,000-square-foot doggy day care provides aromatherapy, facials, a swimming pool, Easy-Turf lawn, chauffeur service and more.

Now, if only Espinosa would write a sequel focusing on traveling with the pup in Northern California.

– Ann Tatko-Peterson

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