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When deciding on a day trip with your dog, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s still summer, so keeping your dog cool and hydrated is still priority number one. There are many summer activities that you may not think of as completely dog-friendly, but are likely in your local area. Most dogs love the same activities as their owners, and there are easy ways to keep these activities safe for our canine companions. Safety is the main priority when planning your summer pet activities. Once you’ve got a plan, an outing with your pet can be an amazingly rewarding experience.
Dog hikes are fun for both humans and dogs alike. The first thing you have to do when planning a hike for you and your pet is research the trails. It’s crucial that you check ahead to see if the trail you plan to hike allows dogs. Many National Parks don’t allow dogs and, although this is unfortunate for us pet owners, there are plenty of other options for you and your four-legged friend. Make sure the trail isn’t too arduous for your pet, and bring enough water to keep both you and your pet well hydrated. Also, don’t forget to bring poop bags for the inevitable poop scooping on the trail. Getting your dog walking and active is essential for an active lifestyle, and going on a hike is a great way to do this.
Beaches can also be a fun summer activity for you and your pet. As with the hikes, make sure dogs are allowed on the beach you plan to visit, and pack plenty of water. Many beaches have a pet-friendly water spigot accessible, so scout around and find that water source. After taking care of the water situation, try to find a spot of shade on the beach or bring an umbrella. You don’t want your dog overheating on those hotter days. Also, if your dog goes into the water make sure you keep an eye on them. Rising tides can bring large waves and strong currents that may catch you or your pet off guard.
Another great summer activity is to sign up for a dog-friendly running or walking event, preferably for a beneficial pet charity. Participating in one of these events is a great experience for both you and your dog. It allows a kind of connection with your animal and other pets and their owners that many other activities do not. It’s a great excuse to get you and your pet in shape, and a great memory for both of you.
Getting away once and awhile and doing something special is nice, but keeping your dog active each day is even more important. Daily dog walks are critical to a dog’s well-being. Most dogs require two to three walks a day in order to stay fit and happy. If you are too busy, consider using a pet-sitting or dog walking service. Although this may seem like an obvious activity, it’s important to keep your dog active when you are away. Even a simple neighborhood dog walk can be very beneficial to your pet.
