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Trying to think of someplace fun that you can go and take your dog with you?
Following are some dog-friendly places to consider for a day-trip — or a vacation — with your four-legged friend.
Speaking of vacations with your dog, did you know there are actually summer camps for dog owners and their dogs?!
It’s true.
Here’s a sampler of summer dog camps that both you and your dog will enjoy.
Now, onto all the fun places you can take your dog closer to home…
- The beach (or lake, or stream, or pond).
Whether it’s for swimming or just dipping your toes in, your dog will enjoy the time spent in different surroundings… and with water! - A dog park.
No dog park in your area? Then take your dog for a stroll in the local city park instead. Your dog needs to be in the presence of other people and pets on occasion, not to mention the exercise benefits! - Another city (preferably one that’s known for being dog-friendly).
Get out and enjoy the sights and sounds in the area. - A car ride.
Just be sure to take all the necessities and secure your dog inside the car. Remember, dogs can fall out of a car window! - A boat ride.
A life-vest is a must — especially for smaller dogs. - A walk.
Use it as another opportunity to practice heeling and walking on a leash without tugging. - A pet store.
PetSmart was one of the first to allow pets inside their stores. But it’s not the only one. These days, people even take their dogs in home improvement stores like Lowes and Home Depot. - A hike in the woods.
Make sure your dog has a tick preventative on, and you take all of the necessities with you. - Camping.
We’ve taken our dogs overnight camping for years. They sleep right in our tent. Just be sure you have tick protection on your dog first! You don’t want to risk your dog getting Lyme Disease. - A friend’s house (to play with their dog).
Call ahead, rather than showing up uninvited! - A doggie daycare facility.
These provide a great change of pace for your dog. He gets to mix & mingle with lots of other dogs, and he’ll definitely sleep well that night! One example is PetSmart’s Doggy Day Camp. - A bike ride.
If you have a larger dog, then you might be able to train your dog to run alongside you for short distances. (Don’t overdo it!) Or, you can tote your small dog on your bike in a bike basket. - Running or jogging.
Just remember, there are some important do’s and don’ts when running with your dog, and not all dogs are made for jogging. - Sledding or skijoring.
Few things are more exciting than watching a dog play in the snow and enjoy sledding! - A dog training course.
Affordable dog training classes are offered all across the country for dogs of all ages and abilities. It’s never too late to fine-tune your own dog handling skills and test your dog’s abilities in beginner or advanced level courses at the same time. - A restaurant.
Usually, dogs are permitted in outdoor seating areas only. Call ahead to make sure the restaurant you’re interested in is dog-friendly. - Canoeing.
You’ll need a mild-mannered dog for this one, or at least one who’s been trained to sit still on cue and for long periods of time! Don’t forget the life jacket.
More Tips & Places To Take Your Dog
- Do This Now In Case Your Dog Gets Separated From You
- Bring Fido: Search Dog-Friendly Vacations Worldwide
- Pet-Friendly Travel Ideas
- 10 Must-Have Items That Simplify Dog Walks & Car Rides
- Dog Friendly Directory
- The Most Dog-Friendly Vehicles For Dog Owners
- Pets Welcome: Pet-Friendly Lodging, Day Care & Pet Sitting
- Dog-Friendly Pet Travel Guides
- Let’s Go Pets: Find Pet-Friendly Locations
I like to help Dog Parents find unique ways to do things that will save time & money — so I write about "outside the box" Dog Tips and Dog Hacks that most wouldn't think of. I’m a lifelong dog owner — currently have 2 mixed breed Golden Aussies that we found abandoned on the side of the road as puppies. I've always trained my own dogs and help friends train theirs, as well. Professionally, I worked at a vet and have several friends who are veterinarians — whom I consult with regularly. (And just because I love animals so much, I also worked at a Zoo for awhile!) I've been sharing my best ideas with others by blogging full-time since 1998 (the same year that Google started… and before the days of Facebook and YouTube). My daily motivation is to help first-time dog owners be better prepared from the first day your new puppy enters your home. I like to help dog owners understand what's 'normal' and what you can expect in terms of living with and training your dog — how to get through the ups & downs of potty training, chewing, teaching commands, getting your dog to listen, and everything else that takes place during that hectic first year! When I'm not training, walking, grooming, or making homemade treats for my dogs, you will find me at the corner of Good News & Fun Times as publisher of The Fun Times Guide (32 fun & helpful websites). To date, I've written over 500 articles for dog owners on this site!
