We all love a good vacation, and what better time to take one than Summer?
In just two days, we’ll be at the Solstice and summertime fun is just starting to heat up! There are so many great things to do with your pets this time of year. No more being cooped up from the rain! (And, man did we have a BUNCH of that this year!!)
The beach is popular among humans and canines alike. I never thought I’d fall in love with the beach as much as I have, until I moved just 20 minutes away from the Monterey Peninsula. What’s not to love? It’s warm sand and sun, breezy days, calming ocean waves. And lots of pooches having the time of their life!
Not every beach is an off-leash or a dog park beach, so be sure to check which specific beach you’re visiting, to make sure your pup is welcome. If your dog has a strong recall then you can bring a frisbee, tennis balls, rope toys, a floating buoy! Whatever your dog’s favorite is!
Just remember to bring plenty of fresh water for them to drink. Ingesting a bunch of ocean water is just as bad for them as it would be for us! And when you’re finished, a quick run through their pads and toes with some fresh clean water to wash away any sand will help keep your pups paws from rashes or abrasions.
Hikes are a great way to spend your mornings or late afternoons with your dogs! The outdoors provide so much enrichment for them to sniff and see.
There are hiking trails all over from mid-city parks to the forests of Big Sur. It’s always good to bring extra water and bowls for your fur kids, as well as a quick first aid kit in case they snag their paw. Saline solution and gauze wraps.
One thing to remember is to check the heat wherever you are going. Even though you may not be walking on concrete – dirt and sand can still get pretty toasty! Always be aware of your puppy’s paws since they’re walking around in bare feet.
To the River! Or your favorite lake! These are fantastic places for pups to play. Again, not all lakes are doggy approved, so be sure to check with the park you’re visiting before you go.
What I love about lakes and rivers is that the water is fresh (depending on your rivers location!) and there’s less likely to be a bunch of fine sand to bother toes. Not to mention, generally, the current isn’t as strong.
They are not without their challenges, rocks, Blue-green algae, and bacteria can be found in the water – always bring your fur family member their own water bottle to drink from, and take a good once over before letting the doggos go!
Blue-green algae can be quite deadly to your dog, whether or not they drink it from the water, or clean it off their coat. Be aware of where you bring your pooch and steer clear of this! If they do get into some – an immediate trip to the vet is recommended!
I never thought I’d be a camping person… and I’d say that I’m still only maybe HALF in love with camping. I know I prefer boat camping on the island in the middle of the delta or at a lake. Just as long as there are some actual restrooms nearby, I’m golden! Lol! I’ll sleep in a tent, cook outside, live on the water or under a tree for a week! No problem.
But, what makes camping ultimately ten thousand percent better? Is having your dog with you! I’ve done both, camping with and without dogs. I prefer having dogs. They just make everything better.
I teach my dogs the word “Hot” so in case of any situation where fire is involved or a danger of them being burnt on something I can say “Hot!” And they will back off. This comes in very handy on a campground, near any open fire. If your dogs don’t know this or are new to outdoor adventures, it would be best to keep them on a lead with you so you can teach them the ropes and keep them safe.
A favorite summer pastime for me is going to outdoor festivals, music festivals, art & wine fairs, anything outside! And if the heat isn’t too bad, my dogs are right by my side.
Many, many outdoor festivals are dog friendly, and it’s great practice, enrichment and socialization for them as well! If you’re headed to a loud music festival and you’ve got a nervous nelly, that might not be the best setting. These types of events tend to have lots of dogs and even more people, they’re absolutely more for the extroverted doggo to enjoy. Unless of course you’ve got a baby sling for your little one, to keep them close and safe. Again, check the weather! Anything too hot should leave your puppers inside at home where they’re cool.
A trip to the park is just as good any time of year. Lots of sniffs and exciting things to hear and see. A place to play ball or frisbee or stretch their little legs for a bit.
This time of year we see lots of dry foxtails and those can be very harmful to your pups. Anytime you work or play near them, always check over your dogs entire body to be sure they don’t pick any up. I never allow my dogs to sniff them either because foxtails love noses! They go in, but they don’t come out! Green foxtails are not harmful. They are still very stable in the ground and are softer than their dried out selves.
Lastly – Naps! Who doesn’t love a summertime nap?! You can’t let this season go by without takin a midday snooze with your best friend. We enjoy naps all year round.
Whatever you do, enjoy your summer with your pupper!! Take some time off and get out there with them. You’ll love it, they’ll love it, and it’ll tire them out! We all know my saying “A tired puppy is a GOOD puppy!”
Happy Summer y’all!!