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Partner Content MAY 23, 2023

Best Dog Collars – A Guide to Keeping Your Pooch Safe

We ranked and reviewed the best dog collars available today to keep your pooch safe and calm the next time you go on a walk.

Best Dog Collars – A Guide to Keeping Your Pooch Safe
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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.45.44 PM.png

The best dog collars are vital accessories for your pet. Not only do they make your dog look super fashionable, they help ensure their safety and provide convenience to their owners.

Recently, a survey showed that over 80% of owners would be open to buying smart collars for their beloved 4-legged friends.

We reviewed collars of all varieties, such as leather, nylon, and fabric, and a wide selection of smart collars offering features like GPS Tracking and Health Monitoring.

We guarantee that you will find the perfect collar for your dog, no matter what their size, activity level, or style.

Top 10 Best Dog Collars Of 2023

  1. Holistapet – Overall Best Dog Collars In The Market

  2. Lupine Original Designs – High Quality Dog Collars & Lashes

  3. Max And Neo – Recommended Designer Dog Collars With Adjustable Straps

  4. Black Rhino – Personalized Dog Collars With Variety Of Colors

  5. Blueberry Pet Spring Scent Floral Dog Collars – Best For Small Pets

  6. Coastal Pet Circle T Latigo Leather Round Dog Collar – Popular Leather Dog Collars

  7. Orvis Personalized Side-Release Buckle Collar – Best For Customized Dog Collars

  8. The Foggy Dog – Super Soft Pumpkin Velvet Collar

  9. Whistle Go Explore – Trusted GPS Tracker Dog Collar

  10. Illumiseen LED – Premium lighted dog collar

1. Holistapet – Overall Best Dog Collars In The Market

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.36.57 PM.png

Holistapet is an online pet store that provides high-quality pet products. Their specialty is their various varieties of dog collars. Holistapet offers various collars in different designs, sizes, and colors.

Their collars are designed to meet the multiple needs of pet owners, such as safety, comfort, and style.

The collars are made using high-quality materials such as durable webbing, heavy-duty buckles, and thick stitching, giving them superior strength and durability.

Features and Benefits

Holistapet’s dog collars are designed to provide the best possible comfort for your dog and offer unique features and benefits. First, their collars are made from durable materials, ensuring that your dog is safe and secure no matter what.

The adjustable buckles and quick-release feature make it easy to get the perfect fit and ensure it’s secure. Plus, the collars feature bright colors so you and your dog can explore in style.

Customer Reviews

Customers continually rave about the soft, easy-to-clean material, adjustable straps, and secure fastening. Dogs also appear to love them, as they don’t pinch or irritate the skin, even on a long walk; some customers have reported that their dogs sit still with no fuss when wearing the Holistapet collar.

Customers also cite the stylish design, from the vibrant, modern colors available to the various sizes for different dog breeds. There are dozens of satisfied reviews for the Holistapet Dog Collar, saying that it is easy to put on and take off and that their dog looks excellent.

=> Visit the website “Holistapet”

2. Lupine Original Designs – High Quality Dog Collars & Lashes

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.37.03 PM.png

Lupine Original Designs is a leading provider of high-quality dog collars and leashes. Their products are made from durable, long-lasting materials and uniquely combine colors, patterns, and sizes.

You can trust that your dog is safe and secure with the Lupine brand. Whether looking for a unique way to express your style or a reliable, durable collar or leash for your dog, look no further than Lupine Original Designs.

Features and Benefits

Lupine Original Designs provide exceptional quality and look for all dogs. Their collars are available in various styles and colors and are made to last.

The main feature of Lupine Original Designs dog collars is the longevity of their materials. Each collar is made from tough and durable webbing that won’t break easily and is resistant to wearing and tearing.

In addition to being tough, the collars are also lightweight and comfortable, so your dog won’t have to deal with extra chafing or discomfort. This makes them perfect for day-to-day use and strenuous activities.

Customer Reviews

Customers praise their use of high-quality materials and bright color designs. Some customers have even commented that the collars are so colorful that they are easy to find when their pet leaves the yard. The collars are also highly durable and come in various sizes to fit different breeds.

Overall, customers are delighted with the Lupine Original Designs dog collars. They are affordable, fashionable, and comfortable for pets. Customers love how the collars are adjustable, which can be adjusted for the perfect fit as their pet grows.

=> Visit the website “Lupine Original Designs dog collars ”

3. Max And Neo – Recommended Designer Dog Collars With Adjustable Straps

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.37.07 PM.png

Max and Neo is a pet supply company that provides quality dog collars. Their signature product is a solid, durable dog collar that lasts long. The company is committed to helping shelter dogs by donating a collar to a shelter dog for each collar purchased.

Max and Neo is strongly dedicated to providing high-quality and reliable pet products at an affordable price.

Features and Benefits

The Max and Neo range of dog collars comes in various styles, colors, and sizes so that you can choose the perfect collar for your beloved pet.

The collars feature stainless steel D-rings for secure leash attachment and nickel-plated buckles for added durability and strength.

Durable nylon webbing ensures that each collar is solid and comfortable. The webbing is also lightweight and resistant to wear, making it great for everyday use.

Aside from offering collars made of high-quality material, Max and Neo also pays close attention to details when it comes to design. Their collars are stylish and include a variety of styles, colors, and sizes to suit any dog.

They also offer a personalized embroidery service, allowing customers to have their pet’s name and contact details embroidered onto the collar. Not only will this result in a stylish collar, but it will also help ensure the dog can be returned home if lost.

Customer Reviews

Max and Neo dog collars and accessories are known for their stylish and functional designs. Customers are thrilled with the products, noting the selection of colors, sizes, and styles.

Customers have praised the adjustable straps, waterproof material, and strong buckles that ensure the collar will stay securely in place.

They also said they could pick out something they knew their dog would love. Customers are also happy with the fast shipping and responsive customer service team.

Many customers have noted that their purchase has saved their dog’s life, thanks to the product’s extra strength and overall satisfaction.

=> Visit the website “Max and Neo range of dog collars”

4. Black Rhino – Personalized Dog Collars With Variety Of Colors

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.37.12 PM.png

Black Rhino has created a line of comfort collars to make dogs more comfortable throughout the day.

Their collars are made with a high-tech blend of Neoprene and faux fur, providing comfort, breathability, and durability. These features ensure that your dog has an optimal fit and all-day comfort.

Black Rhino is dedicated to producing the world’s most comfortable, attractive, and durable dog collars.

Features and Benefits

Black Rhino’s dog comfort collars are designed to provide optimal comfort while being durable and stylish. The collars have superior, high-quality materials that can hold up in any environment.

The collars are crafted with comfortable padding and are lined with a soft and breathable fabric that is machine washable.

The collars feature adjustable buckles and give a custom fit so dogs of any size can enjoy long walks and off-leash adventures. The collars come in various fashionable colors and designs to fit any dog’s style.

Customer Reviews

The Black Rhino company has received rave customer reviews regarding their Comfort Collar line. They offer a variety of colors, sizes, and styles that are designed to meet the needs of any dog.

Customers say these collars are made to fit comfortably on their dogs, and with the adjustable straps, getting the perfect fit is a breeze.

The collars are also made from quality material that is durable and easy to clean, making them an excellent investment for pet owners.

It’s easy to see why customers have been so satisfied with the Black Rhino Comfort Collar line.

=> Visit the website “Black Rhino dog comfort collars”

5. Blueberry Pet Spring Scent Floral Dog Collars – Best For Small Pets

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.37.16 PM.png

Blueberry Pet is known for its high-quality pet products, and the Spring Scent Floral Dog Collars are the perfect way to treat your pooch for the season!

These pet collars come in various colors and styles, with a bright and fresh floral scent that your pet will love. A unique blend of materials ensures comfort and durability, while adjustable sizing ensures your pet is comfortable and secure.

Features and Benefits

Blueberry Pet’s Spring Scent Floral Dog Collar is the perfect accessory to add a touch of floral flair to a pet’s wardrobe. This stylishly designed and colorful floral pattern includes shades of sunny yellows, orange, purple, and bright pink, making a statement to guarantee pet owners a unique and fresh look.

The unique scented feature utilizes high-quality fragrance agents, allowing for a pleasurable scent lasting for multiple weeks with maximum capability.

Customer Reviews

Customers have also been pleased with the convenience of Blueberry Pet’s collars. The quick-release buckle makes getting the collar on and off easy, and the adjustable slide allows for a secure fit. The construction is of the highest quality, and the floral scents still last after many washings.

These collars also look stylish on their dogs and catch the eye of pedestrians. Customers have stated that Blueberry Pet’s Spring Scent Floral Dog Collars are a great way to add color and style to their dog’s wardrobe.

=> Visit the website “Blueberry Pet Spring Scent Floral Dog Collar”

6. Coastal Pet Circle T Latigo Leather Round Dog Collar – Popular Leather Dog Collars

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.37.20 PM.png

Coastal Pet’s Circle T Latigo leather round dog collar is unique in its design and made with great detail. This collar is double-stitched to ensure ultimate security for active dogs, making it perfect for hiking, running, and other outdoor activities.

Coastal Pet’s Circle T Latigo leather round dog collar is the ideal combination of form and function, allowing owners to use it for walks and special occasions.

Features and Benefits

Coastal Pet’s Circle T Latigo Leather Round Dog Collar is the perfect choice for pet owners everywhere. Its classic round design is not only stylish but incredibly functional.

The Latigo leather is a professional strength meant to endure wear and tear while maintaining its stylish, handsome shape.

The metal buckle has a lifetime guarantee and is designed for ease of use and convenience.

Not only does this Circle T Latigo Leather Round Dog Collar look good and feel great, but it also has benefits that are perfect for every pet and pet owner. The leather is flexible, so pets can move and play with ease, as well as have the comfort that is necessary for any collar.

The metal buckle is designed to have no sharp or irritating edges for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

The Latigo leather won’t flake, crack or rot from exposure to moisture. It is also effortless to clean compared to other collars, making it perfect for pets who love to explore and get a bit muddy.

Customer Reviews

Customers report that this dog collar is well-made with high-quality materials and is durable and long-lasting.

The leather is soft and comfortable for the dog, and the circle-T buckle is firm but not bulky. The brass rivets are well-crafted, and the solid brass ring is made to last.

Customers appreciate this dog collar’s sleek look and sturdy design, and some report that the brass ornaments are nicely understated and don’t distract from the classic, timeless look.

Many customers have commented on how easy it is to adjust the collar to fit the size and shape of their dog’s neck.

=> Visit the website “Coastal Pet Circle T Latigo Leather Round Dog Collar”

7. Orvis Personalized Side-Release Buckle Collar – Best For Customized Dog Collars

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.38.11 PM.png

The Orvis Personalized Side-Release Buckle Collar is perfect for comfort and security. It also features a D-ring for secure leash attachment and an array of colors and sizes for the perfect fit for any dog.

The collar is finished with an ID tag engraved with your pet’s name and contact information for easy identification. The personalized side-release buckle ensures that your dog is always secure.

Features and Benefits

Orvis’ Personalized Side-Release Buckle Collar offers several advantages for pet owners. The buckles, made from easy-to-clean nylon webbing, are stainless steel and made to last, offering durability and longevity.

Additionally, in addition to being offered in various sizes, the collars can feature personalized engraving for added customization, ideal for a pet’s name or an address.

The side-release buckles also make it simple to slip on and off, providing convenience and ease of use to those with busy schedules.

Customer Reviews

Customers who have purchased Orvis’ Personalized Side-Release Buckle Collar are raving about their purchase. Many customers report that the collar is of excellent quality and their pet looks comfortable wearing it.

The collar is lightweight and breathable, perfect for active and larger breeds who may require more comfort. Customers also love that the personalized buckle lets them quickly identify their pet.

In addition to the quality of the product, customers are also delighted with Orvis’ customer service. Customers report that the communications team is highly responsive and helpful regarding questions or seeking assistance with purchasing.

=> Visit the website “Orvis Personalized Side-Release Buckle Collar”

8. The Foggy Dog – Super Soft Pumpkin Velvet Collar

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.38.15 PM.png

The Foggy Dog offers an exclusively luxurious yet super soft Pumpkin Velvet collar.

This ultra-durable collar is made from quality velvet material and finished with a pure brass buckle for a touch of style. Not only does this collar look great, but it is also lightweight and adjustable.

The Foggy Dog’s Pumpkin Velvet collar looks fantastic and will surely make your dog the envy of their canine friends.

Features and Benefits

The Foggy Dog’s Pumpkin Velvet Collar is the perfect accessory for pet owners wanting to show their dog’s style. Not only does this collar look fashionable, but it is also constructed with high-quality materials that are durable and comfortable for your pet.

The velvet fabric features classic pumpkin colors and is complimented with golden buckle hardware creating the perfect balance of style and function. An adjustable strap lets you customize the collar to fit your dog perfectly.

This collar is excellent for adding a highlight to your dog’s daily look or for special occasions.

Customer Reviews

The Foggy Dog’s Pumpkin Velvet Collar has customers singing its praises! Dog owners are especially impressed with the velvet construction and the bold, fall-inspired color scheme.

The collar is very stylish yet also surprisingly sturdy; several customers have commented on how it’s managed to hold up through multiple daily walks and adventures without tearing or wear and tear.

Customers also love the hardware on the collar, which comes in various finishes to match their dog’s aesthetic. This attention to detail helps to make the collar stand out from many of the generic, mass-produced collars on the market.

=> Visit the website “The Foggy Dog Pumpkin Velvet Collar”

9. Whistle Go Explore – Trusted GPS Tracker Dog Collar

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.38.21 PM.png

Whistle Go Explore is the leading dog GPS tracker provider that allows owners to monitor their pet’s health, safety, and location at all times. Not only can owners track their pet’s wanderings, but they can also see their active minutes and potential health changes.

The powerful GPS and cellular technology provides real-time and always-on monitoring so owners can closely watch their pet and ensure their safety.

Features and Benefits

The Whistle Go Explore Dog GPS Tracker offers features and benefits designed to give pet owners peace of mind that their pets are safe. Capable of tracking movement up to 3 miles away, owners can know where their pet is in real-time.

The GPS uses advanced cellular technology with long-life battery power, providing constant monitoring to give owners knowledge and assurance that their pet is safe.

The GPS Tracker also has an Activity Monitor with alerts so owners can stay updated on their pet’s movements and activities.

Customer Reviews

Customer reviews of Whistle Go Explore Dog GPS Tracker have been overwhelmingly positive, with users raving about the device’s sleek design, accuracy, and reliability.

Past users have commented on the device’s effectiveness in locating their pets, even in a crowded area or in motion.

Other users were impressed with the built-in activity tracker, which can monitor their pup’s daily activity levels and even detect routine changes.

Customers also love how easy it is to set up the device and monitor their pets through the companion app.

=> Visit the website “Whistle Go Explore Dog GPS Tracker”

10. Illumiseen LED – Premium lighted dog collar

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.38.26 PM.png

Illumiseen is a top-of-the-line lighting product provider selling LED Dog Collars that provide your pet with noticeable lighting that keeps them safe in the dark.

Their LED Dog Collars are water-resistant and feature long-lasting batteries, perfect for keeping your pet safe and visible, day or night.

And with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can be sure your purchase is a sound investment.

Features and Benefits

Illumiseen’s LED Dog Collar will give your dog better visibility and safety when walking in the dark. Its lightweight, waterproof material ensures maximum comfort and durability.

The collar features two bright, integrated LED light strips and can be adjusted in three-size settings for a perfect fit.

Its battery is rechargeable and requires no special tools for replacement. Its one-touch, easy-to-use mode switch allows customizing between steady, blink, and off modes.

With Illumiseen’s LED Dog Collar, owners can rest assured that their beloved pets are safe and visible at night.

Customer Reviews

Customers have stated that they found the LED dog collar to be an essential item. Not only did it illuminate the path and make their pet more visible, but the customers also found that the colorful LED lights weren’t too intrusive and gave off just the right amount of brightness.

Additionally, the customers noted that it was easy to use, and they felt that they had a high level of control if they wanted to change the visibility of the lights or even turn them off.

=> Visit the website “Illumiseen LED Dog Collar”

11. Wild One Collar Walk Kit

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Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 1.38.33 PM.png

Wild One’s Collar Walk Kit provides pet owners with the essentials to travel with their pets easily.

It includes a leash, no-pull harness, stuffable treats bag, key tag holder, and four durable rings conveniently connected to the leash – perfect for dispensing treats during walks.

The Collar Walk Kit is designed to help pet owners take their four-legged friends on exciting outdoor adventures.

Features and Benefits

Wild One’s Collar Walk Kit offers a multitude of features and benefits. Not only are the components stylish and durable, they are also sustainably sourced and highly reliable.

With a quick-release buckle and cheeky embroidery to boot, it’s a fashionable accessory and a secure and reliable one.

The leash is comfortable and lightweight, making it easy for pets and humans. With the Wild One Collar Walk Kit, you and your pet will have a good time during your daily adventures.

Customer Reviews

Customers appreciate the convenience of the kit, which comes with five adjustable collars, two leashes, and a carrier, all in one stylish, streamlined package.

Customers also rave about the look and feel of the collars and leashes in the Wild One Collar Walk Kit. Colors range from classic black and berry to navy and are adjustable to fit a range of neck sizes.

The buckles are heavy-duty and secure, and the leashes are padded for comfort and have an in-hand pointer so they can be quickly dropped on the ground.

=> Visit the website “Wild One Collar Walk Kit” 

What Are Dog Collars, and How Do They Work?

Dog collars are an essential item for any dog, as they are integral to training, keeping your pet under control, and ensuring their safety.

Dog collars are leather or nylon strips that fit around the neck of the dog and are equipped with a buckle that holds a tag that identifies the pet and its owner.

Collars come in various sizes and styles and can be designed specifically for certain breeds of dogs.

Dog collars are a simple yet effective tool to keep your pet safe and under control. The most important thing to consider when selecting a collar is the fit, as one that is too tight can cause discomfort and injury to your pet.

A collar should fit snugly around the dog’s neck, allowing two to three fingers to fit between the collar and your pet’s skin. Once fitted, the collar should be checked periodically to ensure it is still in good condition and, if necessary, adjusted.

Dog collars are an essential tool in teaching your pet obedience and can be used to train them to walk on a leash and understand basic commands. They can also be fitted with various accessories, such as GPS tracking chips and LED lights, to help ensure your pet’s safety and security.

Whatever type of collar you choose for your pet, it is vital to check it regularly and ensure it is in good condition for your pet’s well-being and comfort.

FAQs Related To The Best Dog Collars

1. What Types of Dog Collars Are There?

Many dog collars are available, so deciding which is best for your pet is challenging. The most popular options include flat, buckle, and martingale collars.

Additionally, specialty collars are available for specific purposes such as tracking and agility. Many collars also come with GPS technology.

2. What Size Dog Collar Should I Get?

When shopping for a dog collar, it is crucial to consider your dog’s size and activity level. You may opt for a collar with an adjustable buckle for larger dogs, as this type of collar can accommodate various neck sizes.

Additionally, if your pup is active, you may want to look for a collar with a bit more give.

3. How Tight Should A Dog Collar Be?

The ideal fit of a dog collar is snug but not too tight. It should be able to slide over the dog’s head and rest comfortably around its neck, allowing for two fingers between the collar and your pet’s neck.

It should be snug enough to contact your pet’s fur but not tight enough to cause discomfort or restrict breathing.

4. Can You Leave A Dog Collar Overnight?

It is generally recommended that a dog collar should not be left on a dog overnight. Many collars have metal buckles that can rub on the skin and cause irritation or chafing. Removing the collar before the dog sleeps and putting it back on during the day is best.

5. How Often Should I Replace My Dog’s Collar?

Replace your dog’s collar every six months to 1 year, depending on the material and how much wear and tear it receives.

When choosing a collar, go for one made from durable materials such as leather or nylon, and check it regularly for signs of fraying, stretching, or other wear and tear.

6. How Do I Clean My Dog’s Collar?

You’ll need mild soap, warm water, a soft-bristled brush, and a clean towel to clean your puppy’s collar.

Start by wetting the collar with warm water, then get some soap on the meeting and gently scrub the collar. Rinse the collar thoroughly to remove all the suds, then let it air dry.

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Conclusion : Which One In The Best Dog Collar In The Market? 

In conclusion, when it comes to selecting the best dog collar, there can be no doubt that the Holistapet Dog Collar is the best choice.

However, it is essential to note that while the Holistapet Dog Collar is the best choice, all of the collars on this list are good options.

These collars offer excellent features to make your pooch comfortable and stylish. From providing ease of use to styling options, these collars are designed to make life with your pup easier.

Selecting the suitable collar for your dog is an important decision, but with the help of this list, you can confidently choose the best collar for your beloved canine companion.

Overall, the best dog collar among those discussed, the Holistapet Dog Collar is the clear winner, offering superior builds and materials and multiple safety features.

This is, of course, considering the needs and style of the individual dog owner, their budget, and the terrain the dog will be walking in. The other collars discussed provide good value for money, albeit with fewer features than the Holistapet product.

All in all, the above collars discussed represent some of the best on the market. The individual should look closely at fit, durability, comfort, and style to find the perfect fit for their dog.

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Studio S OCTOBER 22, 2026

Milan Design + Build Helps San Diegans Remodel With Confidence

The San Diego home remodeling company works on full homes, kitchens, bathrooms, home additions, ADUs, garages, landscapes, and hardscapes.

Milan Design + Build Helps San Diegans Remodel With Confidence
Courtesy of Milan Design

Most homeowners want two things before they commit to a remodel: a realistic sense of cost and a clear picture of what the finished space will look like. Milan Design + Build helps deliver both through its online remodeling estimator and personalized design consultations, supported by a showroom experience and 3D renderings.

“The online estimate gives homeowners a starting number in about a minute, and the showroom and 3D renderings let them see materials and layouts before anything is built,” says David Noriani, CEO of Milan Design + Build. “Keeping design, permits, and construction with one team helps us manage expectations and keep everyone working toward the same vision.”

Courtesy of Milan Design

Modern design is a particular focus for Milan, with an emphasis on clean lines, natural light, functional layouts, and carefully selected materials. The team adapts each design to the homeowner’s lifestyle and the character of the property. Milan Design + Build combines thoughtful design with construction expertise, creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.

The online estimator covers kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, full-home remodels, and ADU construction. At Milan’s showroom on Carroll Road, visitors can review real materials, finishes, and design options, meet the design-build team, and discuss project scope, budget, and timing. Consultations can also be held virtually for homeowners who prefer to start remotely.

At Milan Design + Build, one integrated team works on the entire project. Design and construction aren’t divided between separate firms. The process begins with a consultation and feasibility review, followed by design, space planning, and 3D renderings developed from detailed measurements and digital scans. The team also coordinates architectural plans, structural engineering, city approvals, and material selection, with construction overseen by a dedicated project manager.

Homeowners can explore their remodeling options, get an initial estimate, or request a design consultation at MilanBuild.com.

Courtesy of Milan Design

Partner Content
Partner Content NOVEMBER 10, 2026

La Jolla Institute for Immunology Announces $55 Million Fundraising Campaign

The Campaign for La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) will fuel scientific innovation and medical advances

La Jolla Institute for Immunology Announces $55 Million Fundraising Campaign
Courtesy of La Jolla Institute for Immunology

Philanthropists and Scientists Join Forces for a Bold $55 Million Campaign

La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) is going public with a bold bet: a $55 million campaign to propel medical research into a new era. The Campaign for LJI will fuel discovery, empower scientific innovation, and expand the impact of immunology on human health. 

The Institute quietly kicked things off in 2023, guided by its Board, campaign volunteers, and early believers. Nearly 80% of the $55 million goal is already in hand. Now LJI is opening the doors and inviting the whole community to carry their visions across the finish line and back discoveries that change how LJI researchers understand, treat, and prevent disease. 

And there’s a bonus. To mark the public launch, LJI Board member and Campaign Honorary Chair Anthony R. Carr is offering a special matching gift so new donors can double their impact. Full details are here. 

The Promise of Immunology

Immunology has already rewritten human history. Advances in immune science helped wipe out smallpox, pushed polio to the brink of elimination, and revolutionized how we prevent and treat infectious disease. Today, immune-based therapies are opening doors for patients with cancer, autoimmune disorders, and other serious illnesses once considered untreatable. 

For nearly four decades, LJI scientists have stood on the front lines, driven by one insight: the immune system shapes disease in virtually every organ in the body. By decoding how the immune system works and how to harness it to prevent and treat disease, LJI researchers are chasing the Institute’s ultimate mission: Life Without Disease®. 

To make that mission real, the Institute pairs world-class scientists with cutting-edge technology, speeding up breakthroughs and turning discoveries into transformative new therapies that ease suffering worldwide. 

The Campaign for LJI supercharges that momentum, uniting the vision of the Institute’s scientists with a community that believes in research. Focused on advancing LJI’s most promising areas of study, the campaign aims to help build a future free from the burden of disease, a goal that demands bold ideas, lasting partnerships, and generous philanthropic support.

The Campaign for LJI will advance research across three critical pillars: 

1. President’s Priority Fund. Flexible, unrestricted dollars let big ideas move now, not later. Scientists can launch high-risk, high-reward projects, bring experts together across disciplines, build transformative technologies, and train tomorrow’s scientific leaders. 

2. Center for Sex-Based Differences in the Immune System. Male and female immune systems don’t respond the same way, and LJI researchers are tracing the fundamental differences down to individual cells and molecular pathways. The Campaign will speed up this pioneering work, revealing hidden drivers of disease and paving the way for more precise, biologically informed therapies for autoimmune disorders, infectious diseases, cancer, and beyond. 

3. Center for Vaccine Innovation. Immunologists, bioengineers, and vaccine experts are teaming up to design the next generation of vaccines and immune-based therapies. With donor support, LJI scientists can engineer longer-lasting and more personalized vaccines, pinpoint the cellular mechanisms driving protective immunity, and refine delivery methods to prevent autoimmune disease and treat cancer. 

A Lasting Impact

As the campaign enters its public phase, LJI welcomes new partners and supporters to join this landmark initiative. Community support is essential to accelerating scientific discovery, and there are many meaningful ways to help shape the future of immunology. Donors may direct their gifts to any campaign priority or other area of interest. As a comprehensive campaign, all gifts to LJI count toward the campaign goal, regardless of designation. Join the campaign, and multiply your impact with our limited-time matching opportunity. 

To explore the campaign, visit imagine.lji.org.

Partner Content
Partner Content NOVEMBER 9, 2026

Paving the Way for New Knee Treatments

Scripps orthopedic surgeons are investigating stem cells as an alternative to joint replacement

Paving the Way for New Knee Treatments
Courtesy of Scripps Health

Shiley Center for Orthopaedic Research and Education at Scripps Clinic recently received a $12.7 million grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine to investigate whether they can transform stem cells into tissue that can repair some types of knee injuries. Currently, if a patient has lost most, if not all, of the cartilage in their knee, then their doctor will recommend a total joint replacement. Joint replacement is safe and effective, but patients who’ve only lost part of their cartilage often don’t qualify. A stem cell-based treatment would provide these patients an option that doesn’t involve donor tissue. Click here for more on the preclinical trial process. 

For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.

Partner Content
Partner Content NOVEMBER 9, 2026

Healing by Design

Artwork throughout the Lusardi Tower at Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas promotes hope and healing

Healing by Design
Courtesy of Scripps Health

The recently opened Lusardi Tower at Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas is a state-of-the-art addition to the hospital staffed by dedicated team members who’ve helped make Scripps one of the nation’s leading healthcare systems. Complementary to that medical excellence, the Lusardi Tower also represents the latest expansion of the Scripps Arts for Healing Program. The philanthropic initiative strategically places nature- and community-based artwork throughout the hospital to support health and well-being. Both Scripps Encinitas and Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla have healing arts programs as part of new building projects and growth on the campuses. Click here to read more about the Healing Arts Program and how residents from a nearby retirement community showed their support. 

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Partner Content NOVEMBER 4, 2026

A Guide to South Park

From century-old Craftsman homes to vegan fantasy bars, dive bars, and a tiki room built for exactly two people, this is one of San Diego’s great little neighborhoods

You may not realize it, but Balboa Park is bigger than Central Park (in fact, 1.5 times larger). Pressed right up against its southeastern edge is a little architecture farm built on old trolley bones, where houses look like someone was collecting architectural styles and local businesses are still run by people who seem personally invested in keeping this place interesting.

This is South Park. 

To understand why it feels the way it does today—less like one commercial strip and more like a handful of tiny villages—you have to go back to the trolley.

How the Trolley Built South Park

The land that became the original South Park Addition (the subdivision’s original name) was surveyed in 1870 and officially filed in 1890, but the neighborhood really started becoming a neighborhood in the early 1900s. The Bartlett Estate Company began developing and marketing the tract in earnest around 1906, pairing lots and new homes with something extremely useful if you lived outside Downtown in the horse-and-buggy era: an electric streetcar.

On May 1, 1906, the South Park and East Side Railway made its first trip. Developers didn’t just build near transportation; they helped pay for the transportation, then used it to sell the dream. Downtown had industry, noise, and congestion. Out here were palms, sidewalks, utilities, room to breathe and a four-cent ride back to the city.

It worked. Homes began filling in around the streetcar route, and little commercial clusters grew around the places where people got on and off. That transportation pattern is still written into South Park’s geography. Some of the neighborhood’s odd street geometry is also due in part to the trolley—the old line cut across parcels instead of politely obeying the grid, leaving behind pieces of land that later businesses learned to build around. Places like Station Tavern sit on the former easement and station site of San Diego’s No. 2 trolley line.

Then San Diego went big for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition in neighboring Balboa Park. The exposition transformed much of the park and helped push the city through another burst of building and growth. South Park was right there to absorb some of that momentum.

And the people building houses here had taste.

Walk the residential streets now and it can feel like somebody planted an architectural sample garden: Craftsman, Prairie, Mission Revival, Tudor Revival, Spanish Colonial Revival. Creedence Clearwater Revival. All the revivals. The neighborhood includes work by Irving Gill, one of the defining architects of early modern California; Gill-designed Prairie homes still stand along Granada Avenue.

The city formally designated the South Park Historic District in 2017, recognizing roughly 400 properties and a period of significance stretching from 1906 through 1949. In other words, a lot of what makes the place feel old is actually old.

South Park Today

While the trolley eventually disappeared, the basic idea behind it didn’t. South Park is still a neighborhood organized around little pockets of human activity: a couple blocks where you can buy a record, drink a beer, find a 60-year-old lamp, eat a vegan burger beneath gothic beasts, browse a bookstore, and walk home past a century-old Craftsman.

The 30th-and-Fern area may be the clearest example. Several surviving buildings there date to South Park’s early development, including the old Fire Station No. 9, Rose Grocery building, and Burlingame Garage. What began as infrastructure for a young streetcar suburb became the neighborhood’s commercial heart.

That history is also partly why buying a house here can be competitive. There isn’t some endless supply of vacant land waiting around the corner for another subdivision. Much of the neighborhood filled in generations ago, and the architecture itself is part of the appeal.

San Diego Mag’s been documenting the city for 78 years. And we’ve been looking for a partner who loved the city enough to help us tell its stories. Redfin is that partner. They’re helping us tell the story of some of the city’s most unique neighborhoods. They launched Redfin Early Access this year to get their people in first and to see certain coming-soon and exclusive listings on Redfin before they appear on other major real-estate sites.

First up: South Park.

Here are some of the people and places worth knowing here:

Whistle Stop Bar

Big Kitchen Cafe

Start with Judy “the Beauty” Forman, because it’s difficult to explain South Park without her. The former social worker bought Big Kitchen in 1980 and turned a neighborhood breakfast joint into a gathering place for artists, musicians, activists, politicians, eccentrics, and pretty much anyone who needed somewhere to belong. As Judy puts it, “I built this for people who others passed over.”

One of those people was a young single mom named Whoopi Goldberg, who worked as a dishwasher here before the Whoopi Goldberg part of her career happened. Today Big Kitchen still serves breakfast and lunch Thursday through Monday.

3003 Grape Street

Whistle Stop Bar

Whistle Stop reopened in 2001, right as South Park’s little independent-business ecosystem was finding a new generation. Owner Sam Chammas—also connected to Live Wire and, later, Station Tavern—helped turn it into the kind of neighborhood bar where the calendar can jump from a DJ night to live bands to some strange communal event nobody at a normal sports bar would propose.

The room still has that laid-back, slightly sweaty house-party quality. Check what’s happening before you go, because Whistle Stop changes personality depending on the night: sometimes neighborhood beer, sometimes everyone dancing beneath the disco ball like work tomorrow was canceled.

2236 Fern Street

Station Tavern

Station Tavern may be the most literal example of old South Park becoming new South Park. It opened in 2009 on land once crossed diagonally by the No. 2 trolley line, and architect Lloyd Russell incorporated that history into the design rather than pretending the weirdly shaped lot wasn’t weirdly shaped. The project won the San Diego Architectural Foundation’s Grand Orchid Award the same year it opened.

Sam Chammas built the place as an open-air burger-and-beer spot with big communal tables, a backyard, room for kids, and room for dogs. It still works exactly that way: get a burger, get the tots, let everybody spread out, stay awhile.

2204 Fern Street

Kindred + Throne Room

Kindred arrived in late 2015 looking nothing like the beige-and-leafy vegan restaurant stereotype. The place went full gothic fever dream—heavy music, wild cocktails, decadent plant-based food—and eventually collected national vegan accolades plus local Restaurant of the Year and design honors.

And in 2026, it got even weirder. Hidden behind a chain-mail passage inside Kindred is Throne Room, a medieval-fantasy cocktail chamber whose mythology grew out of a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired map the Kindred team created for a 2017 Coachella pop-up. The 90-minute experience has scroll menus, plant-based mezze, cocktails and zero interest in pretending restaurants need to behave normally.

1503 30th Street

Bad Madge & Co.

Vinyl Junkies Record Shack

Vinyl Junkies has good music-scene DNA. Founder Eric Howarth previously ran indie label Hi-Speed Soul, whose roster included acts like Nada Surf and Swervedriver, then teamed with Casbah owner Tim Mays after the pair had spent years putting on Vinyl Junkies record swaps.

They opened the South Park brick-and-mortar shop in 2017, and it remains a buy-sell-trade temple for people who understand that owning music on a physical object is irrational in exactly the right way. Go flip through the new arrivals. Leave holding something you had absolutely no intention of buying.

2235 Fern Street

Bad Madge & Co.

Bad Madge is what happens when “vintage store” doesn’t quite explain the situation. Owner Tanya McAnear and her team fill the shop with furniture, clothing, barware, records, art, jewelry, collectibles, and various objects that seem like they may know things about their previous owners. The shop opened in 2011 and has made reuse and upcycling part of its identity ever since. Go in without looking for anything specific—specificity will only slow you down.

2205 Fern Street

Thread + Seed

Across the neighborhood’s vintage-and-vinyl universe sits Thread + Seed, a local boutique built around clothing, denim, gifts, and personal styling. Its South Park shop has an especially deep denim program—petite, tall, wide-leg, straight, flare—and the store also offers one-on-one styling built around color and body type. In other words, this is where you go after deciding the jeans currently on your body have betrayed you. South Park understands that sometimes personal renewal begins with pants.

2220 Fern Street

The Book Catapult

Seth Marko started The Book Catapult as a book blog in 2006. In 2017, he and his wife, Jennifer Powell, turned it into an actual bookstore in South Park, specializing loosely in fiction, local interest, and children’s books while maintaining the more important bookseller skill: putting something into your hands that you didn’t know you needed.

There are staff picks, author events, signed books, and the dangerous possibility of walking in for one title and emerging with four. Because no one ever died thinking, “I shoulda read less.”

3010-B Juniper Street

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Partner Content NOVEMBER 3, 2026

Tastemakers Fall 2026: Valle

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers Fall 2026: Valle
E-SDM—Valle-2026—Tastemakers_WEB

Roberto Alcocer, Chef

Chef Roberto Alcocer showcases all that Mexican cuisine and culture has to offer at Oceanside’s Valle. The Michelin-guide recommended restaurant takes inspiration and techniques from all over Mexico—with a heavy Baja influence—and blends them with local San Diego ingredients to create original and delectable contemporary Mexican cuisine. The seasonal tasting menu allows Chef Alcocer to experiment with the freshest available ingredients, creating dishes that defy guests’ expectations, while the wine list features more than 100 labels from Mexican artisans. Even the restaurant’s walls are a celebration of Mexican culture, all decorated with work from artists of Baja.

“My favorite part of being a chef of Valle is being able to showcase the Mexico that I know to everyone who visits,” Chef Alococer says. “Not only through the food, but with the design, culture, and welcoming service.”  

Try This!

Lobster Taco: Flour sourdough tortilla with lobster shell bisque and local red spiny lobster

Valle

222 North Pacific Street, Oceanside, California 92054
866-723-8906  | valleoceanside.com

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