Summer is finally here in Minnesota! So, how can you make the most of these warm days? By spending as many of them as possible with your dogs! Here are a few ideas of what you can do this summer with your pups:
1. Camping
If you and your family love to go camping, bring your dog along for the fun too! There are so many dog-friendly campgrounds throughout Minnesota. Before you pack for the adventure, be sure to read this list from Chuck & Don’s on what to pack for your dog and review these camping safety tips written by Rachel, one of our Specialty Technician Team Leads!
2. Dog-Friendly Patios
If you and your friends are all about patio season, then we recommend bringing your dogs along as well on a cooler summer day. Many Twin Cities restaurants, breweries, distilleries, and wineries have dog-friendly patios. There are also a lot of events throughout the summer that are all about spoiling canine diners. Before you bring your dog to a patio though, check out our tips on dog-friendly patio etiquette!
3. Shopping
Get your shop on at some dog-friendly stores. Let your dog pick out a new toy at the pet store or explore a summer Pet Expo together. Check out Sidewalk Dog’s list of dog-friendly shops in the Twin Cities here! Shopping is a fun way to get your dog out in a different environment while also getting exercise. If you do go to a pet expo or outdoor pet-friendly event, keep an eye on your dog. If he/she gets to be too hot or too tired, listen to him/her and head home! Also, provide access to fresh water and allow time for potty breaks throughout the day. Most importantly, while you are out and about, NEVER leave your dog unattended in a parked car on hot days.
4. Swimming
Does your dog love the water? Then enjoy some lake time together! If your dog doesn’t know how to swim yet, here are a few tips on how to safely teach your dog how to swim. If your dog is already a seasoned swimmer, enjoy a beach day together! Play fetch in the water or swim a couple of laps together. Remember, always have a lifejacket that properly fits your dog before going in any deep water or while on a boat. Also, it’s important to be on the lookout for blue-green algae! If you spot some, both you and your dog should stay away and report the algae to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency!
5. Dog Party
Does your dog have a lot of doggy friends? Then throw a backyard dog party! Have treats, toys, and water bowls available for your canine guests. Get some kiddie pools or sprinklers and let the dogs have a blast playing in the water.
Throughout the summer, it’s important that wherever you go, to watch your dog carefully for signs of overheating or a heatstroke. Use your best judgment on warmer days on whether or not it’s okay to go on an adventure or stay inside with the A/C. Keep in mind that on humid days where the temperature is higher than 80 degrees, you should NOT exercise your pets heavily. Humidity, heat, and hard exercise are a dangerous combination for dogs. This means no jogging, running, biking, or rollerblading with your dog running alongside you.
We hope you and your dogs have a fun summer! Tell us about your favorite summer adventures in the comments below!
By Janine Hagen
