By Meredeth Barzen

One of the questions we get asked the most at Sidewalk Dog is “Where can I go when I want to get out of town with my dog?” That’s what prompted our recent Northwoods Getaways post, which offers six lovely local (as in Minnesota’s great Northwoods) spots to spend vacation time with your pooch. One of those resorts, Bluefin Bay, offered us the chance to take a closer look at Lake Superior living, with two nights on the house.** And since there’s nothing Sadie the Wonderdoodle (or her mom) likes better than fresh air, trees, and water, we didn’t exactly hesitate to say yes. Bluefin Bay is extremely dog-friendly, and we found a lot of ways to incorporate fun for Sadie into other aspects of our trip to make this weekend an official Dog-Friendly Northwoods Fun Bonanza. Here’s how it went down:

After a bit of a struggle to get the Wonderdoodle into the car (as animal communicator Ilga Cimbulis once said, carsickness is Sadie’s burden to bear in life), we set out from South Minneapolis for the nearly five-hour drive to Tofte, Minn., treat bags loaded for both dogs and humans. Travel tip: Those fold-up water bowls are great for long car rides—gotta stay hydrated. Those first three hours from the Twin Cities to Duluth are a little on the dull side, so be sure to break it up with a stop in Hinkley at Tobie’s for a killer caramel roll. (Killer is not a euphemism. If you have heart problems, this might do you in—but what a way to go.) We also picked up some considerably healthier 7-grain oatmeal to cook up for breakfast one morning—Bluefin sent a blueprint of our room ahead of time, so we knew we had a full kitchen to work with.

Everyone in the car needed to stretch their legs by the time Great Gichigami was in sight (that’s Lake Superior in common parlance), so we ditched the car at Canal Park in Duluth and took a stroll along the shore. Lunch was a smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel from Northern Waters Smokehaus (oh, what Sadie would have given for some of that smoked salmon, but alas, it was too good to share), after which we continued onward and upward—or, um, Northeast-ward.

From there, it was an hour drive along the beautiful North Shore Scenic Drive to Gooseberry Falls State Park. Sadie felt a lot better once she was able to get some of that good old rust-red Iron Range mud between her toes, but that good feeling dropped off once we got back on the road and her car-queasiness got the best of her. No matter—Scenic 61 has plenty of turnoffs overlooking the big lake where we could stop, clean up, get some fresh air and admire the view.

Just a hop-skip to Split Rock Lighthouse from there—another breathtaking view—and shortly after, we arrived at Bluefin Bay.

Marie at the front desk welcomed us with hiking and cross-country skiing recommendations, a special treat for Sadie and plenty of info on Bluefin’s extremely considerate pet policies. Special plastic mitts for poop disposal are strategically placed all over the property. Also, while many dog-friendly resorts don’t let you leave your dog alone in the room, Bluefin allows it, provided the dog is kenneled (the resort has kennels on-hand if you forget yours or don’t have one.) And, when you duck out for breakfast at the Coho Café or a short trip to Grand Marais, you can leave your cell phone number with the front desk, so if little Fifi or Fido gets nervous in your absence and starts barking or crying, they can give you a ring.

We were directed to a lovely room right on the lake—floor-to-ceiling windows, wood-burning fireplace, a deck, a full kitchen (as promised), a Jacuzzi tub and a hook in the front hallway for hanging up coats and leashes (hey, it’s the little details that count.) Yep, this’ll do just fine. We made a fire, Sadie took her Norman-Rockwell-esque place in front of it, and we relaxed after a long drive. A note for guests whose dogs have a territorial streak: While picturesque, those giant windows offer a clear view of other guests walking along the shore, right past your room. If your dog doesn’t like seeing others near its home—even a temporary one—Bluefin has some upper-level pet-friendly rooms that keep the lake views but shield Rufus from what he perceives as trespassers.

The next morning, with sunlight streaming in those big windows, we set out for a hike. Marie had suggested the Gitchi-Gami State Trail, which stretches all along the North Shore of Lake Superior, and functions as a safe alternative to Highway 61 for bikes. While the Gitchi-Gami wasn’t quite as cool as its name promised—it was totally paved, which is great for cyclists, but not so exciting for tree-huggers like ourselves—it ran past an entrance to the Superior Hiking Trail, a system that weaves 235 miles from Two Harbors to the Canadian border. No one in our small party—Wonderdoodle included—expected the incredible hike ahead through the Temperance River State Park. We paralleled the still-frozen river as it churned its way to the shore, rushing under broken ice in spots and dropping off waterfalls that got more dramatic as it approached Superior. Toward the end of the hike, we teetered along a great gorge and nervously peered down at glacial potholes that the river had gouged out millions of years ago. As an amateur geology geek, I was in heaven. Sadie—leashed the whole time, as much for our peace of mind as for the sake of following the rules—was a happy camper as well.

While walking the grounds of Bluefin Bay, we met a couple of other pooches taking advantage of the ample room to romp. Yoshi, the Shih Tzu/poodle mix enjoyed a long morning walk with his precocious young owner. Dude, the golden retriever, has been bringing his parents to Bluefin Bay for eight years—that must explain why he walked the smooth pebble beach like he owned the place.

But all good things come to an end, and so Sadie resignedly hopped back into the car and we made our way toward the cities on Sunday morning. A lunch stop at the Amazing Grace Bakery and Café in Duluth was invaluable, as it introduced us to The Best Sandwich in the World—thick, hand-sliced, house-baked bread, bright, lively vegetables, and solid construction—and a nice, long stroll along the city’s Lakewalk prepped us all for the remainder of the drive, which we’re happy to report was free of carsickness this time.

So, if you and your pup are into fresh air, sweeping vistas and, yes, truly awesome geology (or even if that last one isn’t really your thing), we’re happy to recommend a dog-friendly trip up to our fair state’s North Shore. For an in-state take on summer vacation, it can’t be beat.

**Editor’s Note: Though the accommodations were gratis, based on the good time we were shown and the number of happy dogs (and owners) we met in our short time there, we’d have nothing but nice things to say about Bluefin Bay regardless.

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By Meredeth Barzen

It’s that time of the year when Twin Citians start getting the itch to get the heck out of Dodge. The dog moms at Sidewalk Dog are no exception, and since we can’t all escape to some tropical paradise, we’ve been thinking about taking a weekend up north—warmth provided not by proximity to the equator, but by the company of our four-legged best friends. And so, we provide to you some ideas for dog-friendly lodging when you decide to load the Weimaraner into the station wagon and soak in some new, snowy scenery. And, since we’re having a hard time relinquishing the whole “tropical vacation” idea, a recipe that will transport you in spirit to a warmer clime. And remember to pack the blender.

Gunflint Lodge, Grand Marais:

The folks at Gunflint Lodge sure aren’t shy about broadcasting their doggie devotion: Five special dog lovers’ weekends throughout the year take care of that. The next one, March 18-21, will include will include dog massages, a dog photographer, a dog Olympics, dog socials, a skijoring demonstration and anything else your canine’s heart could desire. And even if you don’t stay over an officially dog-themed weekend, dogs are always welcomed with water bowls, treats and an extra throw sheet in each cabin before you arrive. Says owner Bruce Kerfoot, Gunflint’s doggie guests are “sometimes easier to host than people.”

Bluefin Bay, Tofte:

Not only does Bluefin Bay have dog-friendly rooms, but some of them even include Jacuzzis and/or fireplaces. You and your pup will be welcomed enthusiastically at this shore-side getaway with treats at the front desk and affection for all four-legged guests. Bluefin has been pet-friendly since it began 25 years ago, and its new sister resort, Surfside on Lake Superior, has kept up the tradition with pet-friendly units of its own. Plus, there are plenty of places for Fido to roam on the North Shore, like Tofte Park (conveniently located right next to Bluefin), where dogs can actually take a dip in the lake—in the summer, that is. Check out Sidewalk Dog next month for more on Bluefin.

Superior Shores, Two Harbors: Stop by for a treat at the front desk on your way back to your rented condo at this lakeside retreat. Though many guests don’t realize dogs are allowed in certain rentals, owner Darrin Young often brings his border collie and golden retriever to work with him. Says Sidewalk Dog reader Jenn Reed Moses, “Superior Shores is awesome. My dog, who is scared of strangers, actually started putting her paws on the front desk to ask for treats—I was mortified, but the staff loved her and were great about it.”

Caribou Highlands Lodge, Lutsen:

This Lutsen getaway offers a number of dog-friendly rooms, and in the unlikely event that you get bored, can suggest lots of fun activities for you and your pups, like hiking up to the Poplar River, exploring the nearby state parks or skijoring. Caribou’s Martin Pettersson recommends “being proactive and making your reservations early, since the pet-friendly units are very popular and tend to fill up very fast.”

Sea Villa Townhomes at Lutsen Resort, Lutsen:

These one- or two-story townhomes near Lake Superior’s shore tempt people with wood-burning stoves and a beautiful pool/whirlpool/sauna complex. Doggies are drawn to the walking trails and abundance of squirrels. This dog-friendliness was a crucial factor when Carol Taylor, who owns one of the Sea Villas, was shopping around. “Basically, if I couldn’t bring my dog [Stanley, a Bernese Mountain Dog], I wouldn’t want to own,” she says, adding, “Judging from the notes in my guest book, I can tell that being able to bring dogs to the villas is greatly appreciated.”

Sweetgrass Cove Guesthouse & Bodywork Studio, Grand Portage:

Secluded on a lovely Lake Superior bay, this guesthouse welcomes well-behaved and “well-groomed” dogs—so it wouldn’t hurt to give Günther the Great Dane a bath before showing up. Though owner Rick Anderson’s beloved Irish terrier Lucy passed away recently, “Now more than ever,” he says, “I welcome my guests with dogs to remind me just how beautiful that relationship can be.” Great hiking trails and the very dog-friendly nearby town of Grand Marais make for a fun doggie visit, and ready access to a massage table makes your stay extra-relaxing.

Now where did you pack that blender?

Piña Coladas, SidewalkDog.com Style:

½ c. white rum

½ c. coconut cream

2 c. pineapple juice

4 c. ice

Blend until smooth, pour yourself a glass, and throw your dog a bone. Why should people get all the treats?

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By Meredeth Barzen

If you asked a dog what its ultimate gift idea was, it would probably say “bacon.” But when it comes to dog owners, those flummoxed by the idea of picking the perfect present for the dog lover in their life need look no further than home. Minnesota is a breeding ground for great gift ideas, both practical and far from it, that any canine caregiver would be thrilled to find in their stocking come December. So get a jump on your holiday shopping and support local businesses by checking out a few of the less meat-inspired ideas below:

Cool Collars and Leashes Dogs can trot around town in style with collars and leashes from local companies like Bark + Biscuit, Cosmo’s Collars and Stunt Puppy.

You might have trouble choosing just one fun design from Bark + Biscuit and Cosmo’s Collars, and Stunt Puppy’s stretchy, hands-free Stunt Runner™ leash is perfect for runners who like to take their dogs along.

Where to find it: Online at Bark + Biscuit, Cosmo’s Collars and Stunt Puppy and at local boutiques like Bone Adventure, Urbanimal, CorAzoN, Shoppe Local and Don’t Make Me Beg.

Breed-specific Note Cards by Mod-Dog Stylized silhouette prints of dozens of dog breeds make for some very cute note cards (the better to thank you with after you give the best gift.) Mod-Dog also makes wall prints from their designs, as well as chic ID tags and customized jewelry.

Where to find it: In St. Paul at Don’t Make Me Beg, online.

Maggie’s Light Candles by Nelli Designs These hand-poured EcoSoya™ candles are a great way to honor a dearly departed doggie as a memorial, or to celebrate the pets who are still a part of our lives. Available  in 12.5 oz and 21 oz. A dollar of each local sale goes to Homeward Bound Dog Rescue.

Where to find it: Petunia’s, Bone Adventure, Ataz, Fresh Seasons Market, online.

Portraits and Holiday Cards by Sarah Beth Photography The local legend in fresh, modern pet photography is offering holiday photo sessions and greeting cards this year—or, give a gift certificate in any amount and your giftee will have a lovely likeness of Fido’s face forever.

Where to find it: Online.

T-shirts and Bandanas by The Dog Perk For the dog lover who wants to wear his heart on his sleeve, The Dog Perk makes more than 40 different designs of canine-centric T-shirts and sweatshirts for two-leggeds and cheeky bandanas, blankets and biscuits for four-leggeds. Plus, they’re passionate about supporting local rescues, so your gift helps more than your reputation.

Where to find it: Online.

Custom Gifts by Personalized Pooch Some people (Sidewalk Dog included) never get sick of looking at their mutt’s mug. Personalized Pooch will plaster it all over purses, pillows, plush blankets, pill cases, playing cards—you name it, they’ll Poochify it.**Special deal for Sidewalk Dog readers: Personalized Pooch is offering 10 percent off one item until December 5th. Just enter the code “SIDEWALKDOG” on the Web site when you order!

Where to find it: Online.

Cute Capes by BugDuds When Dorothy Grinolds’ miniature dachshund, Ladybug, got cold, she didn’t get mad—she got crafty. The result? Elegant little doggie capes that are warm and whimsical. Check out the Christmas capelette, more decorative than functional, but sure grab some “awww”s at the holiday party.

Where to find it: At the No Coast Craft-O-Rama, 12/4-12/5; online.

Canine Couture by Wahssie The depth and breadth of these designer doggie duds is truly amazing, from sweatshirts to raincoats to Asian-inspired kimonos (we kid you not). Part of the sales benefit Underdog Rescue. And the best part? It’s all very reasonably priced.

Where to find it: Online.

Winter Jackets by Arrowhead Trading Co. Designed and tested by “people who spend their days and nights [outdoors] in the north country,” these practical jackets are easy-fitting, comfy and warm. They can also withstand multiple washings without losing their shape.

Where to find it: Urbanimal, online.

Portraits and Art by Local Artists Present your pal with a Stray Dog Arts gift certificate and their pooch can pose for a painting by local artist Jessie Marianiello. Or, for a less expensive and more immediate art gift (i.e. last-minute stocking stuffer), grab one of the artist’s fun, dog-themed miniature “cube” pieces or greeting cards.

Also check out Lintu Art’s Sarah Thornton of the famed “Dogs by the Lakes” poster series. For the holidays, Thornton’s offering a 10 x 10 portrait for just $125. She works with oil pastel, soft pastel or graphite, and each portrait includes a free 20-minute outdoor photo shoot. (Says Thornton, “The photo shoot can be used to capture the perfect pose for an additional gift or for creating Christmas cards or family memories.”) Gift certificates available.

Where to find it: Stray Dog Arts: Online, at Etsy, at CorAzoN and at her booth in Gaviidae Market every Friday 11/20-12/18, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Lintu Art: Online.

Pet Memorial Jewelry by Lisa Havelin For a friend who’s lost a dog around the holidays, a pet reliquary is a beautiful way to keep Spot close to the heart and alive in memory.

Where to find it: Online.

Dog Treats by Local Bakeries Delight humans and hounds with gourmet goodies made from all natural, human-grade ingredients and lots of love. Luc, the original Sidewalk Dog, goes nuts for the beef jerky from Clyde’s K9 Cuisine (formerly Well Pet Foods). He’d also dig Jack & Dakota’s treats, which are made from organic ingredients and include such flavors as Apple & Peanut Butter, Chicken & Rosemary and Beef & Sage. And he’d be beyond impressed if the gift giver was also the gift maker (or baker). Check out local master baker/dog dad Klecko’s K-9 Nation Biscuit Book: Baking for Your Best Friend for ideas and inspiration.

Where to find it: Clyde’s K9 Cuisine: Online. Jack & Dakota: Online. K-9 Nation Biscuit Book: Baking for Your Best Friend: Barnes & Noble, online at Amazon and at Minnesota Historical Society Press.

Paper Dolls by Hungry Dog Designs Charm both children and adults with these whimsical, handcrafted paper dolls. Inspired by artist Paula Fynboh’s love of color, Mexican folk art, and her Boston Terrier, each doll is handmade using decorative paper and recycled trinkets and includes a small envelope, note and magnet for display. Custom orders available.

Where to find it: Online and at local boutiques like CorAzoN, I Like You, Gallery 360 and Karma.

And when you’re truly stumped on what to get someone? You can’t go wrong with a gift certificate for a pet service—check out the Sidewalk Dog Directory for the top trainers, walkers, sitters, daycare providers, pet food deliverers and more—or a donation in your giftee’s name to a rescue or animal-related nonprofit like The Pet Project, Pets on Wheels, R.E.A.D. Dogs Minnesota or the new Minnesota Spay Neuter Assistance Program (MN SNAP). Because nothing makes the holidays warm and fuzzy like knowing you’ve helped pets in need.

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LEASHES

Stunt Puppy™. If you don’t think canine gear can be both functional and fashionable, then you haven’t seen Stunt Puppy’s collars, leashes, and accessories. Stunt Puppy website (use coupon code DISH for free shipping through December 31st), Urbanimal, BoneAdventure, Corazon, and Marathon Sports.

Dugen Clip. This is the leash that lets you go anywhere. Take your dog out on the town on all your errands knowing that you can secure them safely to anything from a tree to a street pole if they can’t come inside with you. Easily adjust the size. Where to buy: Dugen Clip website and 45 Degrees, Urbanimal, KBO Doggie Duds.

Bark-n-Biscuit has the best designer collars and leashes for dogs of all sizes. FREE SHIPPING AVAILABLE. Matching sets or mix-n-match in great colors. Retail for $28 and up. Where to buy: Bark-n-Biscuit website.

TREATS

Hound Street™
Looking for a unique gift for a hard-to-shop-for hound? Quit sniffing around and enroll the fastidious Fido in the Hound Street Treat-of-the-Month Club. Aptly named by size, The Jack Russell (for petite pooches), The Boxer (for medium mutts), and The Labrador (for biggish beasts) packages were created to put an end to what owner Lynn Johnson calls “treat boredom” by delighting furry members with a different treat package each month for an entire year. Where to buy: Hound Street website (15% off when you spend $20 or more through December 18th), Pet Chef Express, Andover Animal Hospital, and Armstrong Ranch Kennels.

Sojos has not only the high quality treats that are corn and wheat free, but also the loveliest packaging that requires little to no wrapping. The Kung Fu Fido brand is a box of fortune cookie treats for dogs with a real fortune in each one. And, Good Dog Treats in the cutest little boxes with handles. (Indie loves Blueberry Cobbler and Chicken Pot Pie the best.) Where to buy: Linden Hills Coop, Fetch Delivers, BoneAdventure, Whole Foods, Chuck and Don’s in Calhoun Village.

FASHION

WAHSSIE™. Fortunately for furry fashionistas everywhere there is new canine courtier in town: Winnie Tan Musser, owner of WAHSSIE™ Knine Fashion. Named after a pet name for her toy poodle Wah Wah (Chinese for “doll’), WAHSSIE offers everything from basic tees and spaghetti-strapped tanks to fleece hoodies and puffy vests. The versatile designer’s most unique collection, however, is composed of traditional Asian-style clothing including silk coats, Japanese kimonos and Chinese Cheongsam and Qi Pao dresses.  Where to buy: WAHSSIE website and 4 Paws Boutique.

Also, don’t miss Lulu and Luigi in St. Louis Park where their to die for dog sweaters are made of luxurious cashmere, tween and Italian
wool.

MONOGRAMMING/PERSONALIZATION

PillowGram™. PillowGram™ is the brainchild of Nancy Sundeen, dog mom to three Bernese Mountain Dogs who has a soft spot in her heart for pets. PillowGram allows you to personal a travel-sized pillow with custom embroidery. You can also chose from hundreds of themed fabrics. Great for a pet who is recovering from surgery, away at a pet sitters or just plain likes to put her head on a pillow.
Where to buy: PillowGram website.

Also check out Momento Inc. in St. Paul for artist Robin Getsug Taple’s gorgeous handmade pillows that can be personalized with photos of you and our pet, and InBeaute Photography in St. Paul where Wendy Blomseth has created a new line of photo totes and purses that can give you a lovely and practical way to “carry” your pet with you wherever you go.

CREATURE CARE

Stacy Lewis/Dancing Porcupine™. Is your best friend (or someone else’s) feeling particularly out of balance these days? Has it been a “ruff” year? Consider the gift of Stacy Lewis, “creature teacher,” author of the heartwarming book JAVA: The True Story of a Shelter Dog who Rescued a Woman and gifted practitioner of Tellington TTouch™, Shamanic Healing, and Animal Communication.  Where to buy/book: Dancing Porcupine website.

Also check out Janet Roper, just back from the American Music Awards, Janet is also an animal communicator as well as a violinist who can sooth your pet with 30 minutes or more of her heartwarming music.

For Dog Lovers

For dog lovers, there are so many great gift ideas that can make any pet parent’s life easier. Some of those interests include: gardening, shopping, vacationing, crafts, reading, shopping, dining out, sports and outdoor activities, renting movies.

Here are a few ideas:

House Cleaning. Give your friends a family a break from the fur and get them a gift certificate for house cleaning. Check out Nook and Cranny who specialize in pet homes and can care for your pet.

Yard Clean Up – Pet Yard Pick-Up, Scoopy Poo, ScoopWorks

Outdoor Gear - Socks, face warmers, hand warmers and anything to keep dog lovers warm during the extra time spent walking outside with their dogs. Check out 45 Degrees and Jake’s on St. Croix Life is Good Store, both in Stillwater (and both carry dog items, too).

Dog-Friendly Stores – Gift certificates where dog lovers can shop with their dogs. Corazon, Java J’s, Settergren’s Hardware, Bayers Do It Best Hardware, Rick Rack, Twiggs and Wonderment.
Photo Albums and Frames

Dog-friendly lodging: Gunflint Lodge in Grand Marais, Kah-Nee-Tah gallery and cottages in Lustsen and The Outing Lodge at Pine Point just outside of Stillwater and Turtle Creek Ranch in Prairie Farm, WI just one hour East of Stillwater.

Do you have a Minnesota-made holiday gift suggestion?  Post it here.

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