Why do we train our dogs to go potty outside if we keep them locked up in the house all day? Some trainers estimate dog owners should spend at least two to three hours each day walking, training, and playing with their pets, but on Guam this is easier said than done. With no real off-leash zones, dog owners are often hard-pressed to find places open to the cousins of Canis lupus. But with a little nosing around, you might find Guam is just like a kong toy, with treats hidden in unlikely places. If you're looking to bring your fur babies to Guam, check out our article with some helpful information about moving your pets to Guam or this article about moving your dog to Guam.
Where to Stay
By ADA law, hotels are required to accommodate individuals in need of service animals. With a stringent quarantine process, those just passing through are advised to leave Spike at home. For individuals moving to or from the island however, a handful of hotels do accommodate small to medium-sized dogs.
In the heart of Tumon, the Westin Resort Guam allows 1 pet per room up to 40lbs. and charges a $100 non-refundable deposit with an additional $20 cleaning fee per day. Located in the red hills of Yona, Leo Palace Resort accommodates 1 pet per room up to 30lbs. for a fee of $100 for 5 days or less.
Also located in Tumon, the Dusit Beach Resort allows 1 pet per room up to 30lbs. and charges a $25 fee per day (up to $100 per stay) for guests with pets. A refundable security deposit of $100 is also required to cover any additional cleaning that may be required.
On Ypao Road in Tamuning, Wyndam Garden allows 2 pets per room up to 30lbs. per pet, for a rate of $35 a day per pet, with a non-refundable deposit of $100. Out back by the pool, Wyndam Garden also has a small yard with an obstacle course, perfect for dogs to get their daily exercise.
Also located in the center of Guam's favorite tourist spot, Garden Villa Hotel accepts a limit of 2 pets with a maximum weight of 50lbs. per pet for a fee of $200 per pet, per stay. Garden Villa Hotel also provides a big, tranquil garden environment where your furry friends can run around and have fun in the sun.
While civilian dogs shipped to Guam, are quarantined at Harper Valley Kennels, short-term boarding is also offered at veterinarian clinics, including:
- Isla Veterinary Clinic in Asan
- Animal Medical Clinic & Pet Quarantine in Harmon
- Marianas Vet Care in Barrigada
- Wise Owl Animal Hospital in Tamuning
- Guam Pet Hospital in Hagatna
Other boarding facilities for your furbabies:
- Bed and Biscuit
- Happy Pooch Groom and Board
- Cloud K9
- Andersen Pet Lodge located on Andersen Air Force Base
Where to Chow
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at many outdoor cafes around the island. We’re all guilty of giving our dogs table food now and then. Take Rover to a food truck like Heavy Hitters, and those puppy eyes will beg for a bite of your burger!
After a long walk along Pale San Vitores Boulevard, drop by the TGIF restaurant, which is situated nearby to DFS Galleria, and dine on their spacious outdoor patio with your pet while you enjoy a meal. Bring your own water bowl when you enjoy Mediterranean food at Dr. Kabob’s at the Agana Shopping Center.
There may be a correlation between people with good taste in beer and people who love dogs. At least that is the case of old traditions and the Tower of London Pub in Tumon. Besides boonies being adored in both of these bars, the only pick up line that really works is, “What’s your dog’s name?” Also enjoy your happy hour time outdoors with your dog by your side at Carabao Brewing located in Agana.
It’s no secret that dogs love beaches as much as their humans. Let Rocky roam around one of Guam’s oldest cantinas, Jimmy Dee’s Beach Bar on Hågatña Bay, famous for its live entertainment. At the far end of Tumon, take your Guamie greyhound to the Beach Bar and Grill. Not only is this a pet friendly place to party, it’s also one of the best places to catch the tropical sunset. You can also check out Guam's newest tiki themed beach bar TABU located right outside the Dusit Beach Resort where you and your pet can enjoy sitting in reclining lounge couches and listening to the sounds of live music.
Celebrate your Dog's Birthday
You don't always have to celebrate your best friend's birthday at home or at the park. Treat your pupper to some special birthday desserts at places like Island Girl Coffee and Cafe GudCha — spots not only for coffee lovers but dog lovers too. Island Girl Coffee is a drive-through-only coffee shop which provides treats such as Milk-Bone brand dog biscuits, and the best thing to note is that it's also free! Slingstone Coffee Shop also offers a special puppuccino as a birthday treat for your dog. Lastly, check out FETCH located across BankPacific next to Hava Java in Agana, Zoomies Pet Supply located in Tamuning next to Saint Anthony church, or Rocky's Pet Supplies located next to RE/MAX Realty Group in Agana. These pet stores offer a variety of delicious cookies, birthday cakes, and treats for your dogs to enjoy!
Shop till you Drop with your Dog
Yes, you heard that right! Instead of having to leave your pet at home, why not bring your pet with you while you hit up your favorite places to shop? Guam Premier Outlets (GPO) has launched a new program where your furry friends are allowed inside the shopping facility. The program is only for dogs, and they must always be on a collar, short leash, or choker. Dogs also have to be licensed with the Department of Agriculture and possess a license tag. Water stations are also available and located outside of the mall entrances. Lastly, pet owners must stay with their pets at all times. For more information, check out the GPO Furry Friends Code of Conduct. The Home Depot also allows you to bring your furry friend shopping with you.
How to Adopt
If you are looking to adopt a dog, visit the island’s humane society, Guam Animals in Need (GAIN), located in Yigo. In addition to being a drop-off center for strays, GAIN hosts semi-annual healthcare clinics.
