I wanted a dog for over 20 years. I dreamed about having a dog, cried about not having a dog, studied dog encyclopedias, and read dog training manuals.
I was obsessed. But I also knew to wait for the right time and city before making it a reality. But then came a move to San Diego in —San Diego with its dozens of parks and multiple beaches just for dogs; hiking, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding that include a four-legged friend; restaurants with liberal treat policies and even dog menus; and a blissful climate that means never having to walk a dog in snow, hail, or even much rain.
So three months after moving here, I welcomed my golden retriever, Teddy. At the time I was a newbie with no local friends or family, but Teddy forced me to get outside and, in the process, make friends.
News flash: People love puppies. Even on the days when I felt completely friendless, he still needed to go outside, so I went, too. He kept me going, and I owe a lot of my acclimation to him.
 "Whores in Chula Vista")
We arrived in San Diego—him a native, me a transplant—around the same time, so all our San Diego experiences have revolved around each other. And Teddy and I do everything together: We enjoy Saturday mornings at coffee shops, kayaking in Mission Bay, and long walks on the beach. And fortunately, the outdoors here just happen to be some of the most friendly, engaging, and accommodating places to hang with your dog.
