Doggie Day Trips – Planning an Outing with Your Best Friend
There are few things that dogs enjoy more than spending a day with their best friend – you! And many dog owners long to spend more time with their furry friends, but there often isn’t time. The key is to make time. If you have been planning weekends and day trips already, then just plan the next one around your dog. Here are some ideas for a doggie day trip.
Hiking
This is one that most dogs just love. Pack a lunch and head out to your local park or forest with your dog. You can get gear bags for your dog’s back so he can carry his own gear, and a day pack for you. Plan out the trails you will walk with your dog, and make sure to keep him on a leash.
It’s tempting to let them run when you are out in the woods, but it’s not considerate of other hikers nor is it safe – your dog might pick up the scent of a deer or other wildlife and disappear on you.
When you go hiking with your dog, there are some key items to pack.
* Water for man and beast. Neither of you want to go thirsty.
* A collapsible water bowl is like a dog’s portable water bottle. Make sure to bring one.
* Basic first aid for both of you, such as antiseptic and bandages.
* A tie-out leash for the picnic area (or wherever you stop to eat and need your hands to be free).
Shopping
Outdoor malls, markets, flea markets, and cafes offer a full day for you and your dog. You can have lunch at an outdoor eatery (with your dog tethered of course), and then partake of the outdoor markets. Farmers’ markets, feed stores, and other animal-friendly venues allow you to take your dog along on your shopping trip without violating any “no dogs allowed” rules. Most importantly, outdoor shopping means you won’t be tempted to leave your dog in the car on a sunny day.
Visiting Others
All kinds of studies have been done on the therapeutic effects of animals. As long as you have permission from whomever you wish to visit, a nice way to spend a day out with your dog is to visit others. Local shut-ins are a good place to start. You could also consider a nursing home or children’s hospital, as long as you’ve checked with those in charge first.