A Bay Area resident recently put out an open call to dog owners: show up at Pacifica Beach (the one near the Taco Bell, you know the spot) on August 30th between 2 and 6 PM, and let them pet your dog. That's it. That's the ask. They'll bring treats for the pups and snacks for the humans. The first dog to arrive even scores a Taco Bell gift card, which — say what you will — is a more efficient use of funds than most municipal programs we cover.

The response has been genuinely heartwarming. One local suggested checking out Muttville in San Francisco, the senior dog rescue where you can get all the furry therapy your heart desires. Another pointed out that many shelters and rescues let you sign up to take dogs on "spa days" — essentially short-term fostering without the long-term commitment. "Perhaps you could get set up with a rescue or shelter prior to August and spend your birthday celebrating with a shelter dog for the day," one Bay Area resident suggested. Not a bad idea if you're craving regular dog time but can't commit to full ownership (hello, SF rent prices).

Look, we spend most of our time here at The Dissent holding local government's feet to the fire over wasteful spending and bureaucratic incompetence. And we'll keep doing that. But part of what makes the Bay Area worth fighting for is stuff exactly like this — a stranger on the internet saying, "I'm lonely, I miss my dog, come hang out at the beach," and a whole community showing up with golden retrievers and good vibes.

No permits required. No $149,000 project manager needed. Just people, dogs, and a Taco Bell gift card.

If you've got a friendly pup and a free Saturday afternoon on August 30th, consider swinging by Pacifica Beach. It costs nothing, it helps someone feel less alone, and your dog will almost certainly have the time of their life.

Sometimes community doesn't need a government program. It just needs a beach and some dog treats.