OVERVIEW
In the East Bay’s City of Albany; home to Golden Gate Fields race track and host of the Solano Stroll annual street fair; close to where I-80 and I-580 meet, resides Albany Bulb or “The Bulb” as East Bay locals call it. This park is known for its small dog-friendly beach, as well as an assortment of short paved and dirt trails. Best of all, dogs are allowed off-leash throughout the park. If you are looking for a pet-friendly activity in the East Bay, go do the CANGO at the Albany Bulb.
HOW PET-FRIENDLY IS IT?
The Bulb hosts trails of varying lengths and terrain, which allows you to change up the distance and surface you walk with your dog, depending on your mood and/or ability. This park provides an opportunity for your dog to socialize and frolic with other dogs on the beach, but it is not as crowded or action-packed as Point Isabel.
The Bulb has a history deeply entrenched in politics because it is both a regional and state park. There has been controversy about the off-leash policy and some whining from bird watchers, but for now, dogs are allowed off-leash, and they have been for years.
The Albany Bulb also had issues in the past with homeless encampments that provided refuge to many off-lead pit bulls. It was not an uncommon sight to see trash or drug needles on the ground. Fortunately, the City of Albany was able to provide the park’s squatting occupants with funds to move; and now the park appears to be much cleaner and safer.
IS IT CONVENIENT OR A PAIN IN THE —?
Parking varies depending on the time of day and weather. There are a somewhat limited number of free parking spots available by the park’s entrance and you can also park along Buchanan, the street leading into the park. The Bulb is back from where two major freeways intersect, I-80 and I-580, but since it is right on the water, there are no major or common issues with pollution.
Since the Bulb is an official dog park, it is easy to dispose of waste, with trash cans and doody bag dispensers at the entrance and the trailheads.
The closest 24/7 emergency vet is PETS Referral Center located at 1048 University Avenue in Berkeley. This clinic is just under 2 miles away or about a 10-minute drive. Although I do not want to be held accountable for individual experiences, I will share with you that this facility is the resource utilized by locals, if they have an after-hours emergency.
*[Please note: We provide the veterinary locations as a reference and resource, not a referral or endorsement].
Click here to explore more dog parks in Alameda County or other counties in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area.
