Sandpoint - a Dog-Friendly Getaway and the Most Beautiful Small Town in America!

Voted the most beautiful small town in America for 2011 by Rand McNally and USA Today, Sandpoint, Idaho offers not only beauty, but also winter activities galore. You can hit the slopes, take a sleigh ride, ice skate, cross-country ski, ice fish … well the list goes on and on. Don’t worry, you don’t have to leave your furry-family member behind.

Sandpoint is a very dog-friendly, and depending on your dog, he may be able to participate in some of those activities with you, such as cross-country skiing and snow shoeing. Not only can your pooch have fun with you out of doors, but also indoors. After outdoor exercise, take him to the pub where your dog is as welcome as you are - Laughing Dog Brewing. It doesn’t matter if your pup fits in your pocket or if he is the size of a pony; take him on inside where you can hoist a tasty libation and your dog can lap at the water bowl. At this extremely dog-friendly place, you and your pup are sure to make new friends.

Speaking of brew skis, if you are spending time in Sandpoint in February, you can enter Fido in the annual K-9 Keg Pull (pictured to the right). Again, the size of your dog does not matter; there are a range of keg sizes, so your dog doesn’t have to be a Saint Bernard to compete. This event is part of Sandpoint’s Winter Carnival, February 17th -27th. It is hosted by Eichardt’s Pub & Coffee House on Feb 26th and all proceeds are donated to the Panhandle Animal Shelter.

When you pursue some people only activities, no worries; the pooch can have some play time with peers at one of the doggie daycares. (Don’t forget the shot records.) Take in a show at the historic Panida Theater or check out the art galleries and the many unique shops downtown, while Fido does some canine socializing and gets some exercise. You and pup will benefit from the treat of an enjoyable time even when you are apart.

Without a doubt, Sandpoint is a getaway destination for the "entire" family. It is a place to bark about and give a thumbs up and paws up, too.

Need a pet-friendly place to stay? Check in with Jake, the doggie concierge, at La Quinta Inn Sandpoint.

For more information about Sandpoint: http://visitsandpoint.info.

(Photos by Jenn Pearce)