The Summer's Hottest Activities for You and Your Dog
May 2016 guest blog article
Kristen Levine, pet living expert
It’s almost summertime and the living is easy. Especially when you’re spending time with your favorite pooch. Long, warm days are the perfect chance for the two of you to explore new places and try new things. Not only is it a great way to bond, you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to make the most of your summer vacation? Check out a few of my favorite sun-soaked adventures for you and your best furry friend.
Make a Splash
There’s an ocean of fun ways to play in the spray with your dog. Everything from swimming to boating to surfing (yes, really!). But the activity I’m planning to try this summer with Chilly is stand-up paddle boarding or SUP’ing.
Using a paddle board and a paddle, SUP’ers propel themselves across a body of water. While it may be a bit easier than surfing, it does require practice and ideally, some lessons, especially if you’re taking your dog along. A great way to get started is by reading How to SUP with Your PUP by Maria Christina Schultz. Also, check for Sup with Your Pup classes in your area.
Earn a Badge
We’ve all heard of the Boy Scouts and the Girl Scouts, but what about the Dog Scouts? Established in 1995, the Dog Scouts of America is a non-profit organization that promotes education, positive training and responsible pet ownership.
Once your dog becomes a certified Dog Scout, they can go on to earn merit badges in categories such as therapy work, community service and geocaching. There are troops in a number of states, and if there’s not a troop near you, you can form one of your own!
Pitch a Tent
Not quite ready to start earning merit badges? You and your pup can still enjoy one of the most popular scouting activities on your own: camping! And as a bonus, this classic outdoor adventure often opens up other opportunities like swimming, hiking and biking.
When packing for a weekend in the woods, be sure to bring food, a doggie first aid kit, and their blanket, bed or crate. Of course, flea and tick prevention is a must (I prefer this safe approach to bug protection from a recent blog I wrote). And if you’re planning to stay in a developed campground, check beforehand to make sure they accept pets.
Do a Downward Dog
Looking for a more low-key, Zen-like summer activity? Many yoga studios are now offering “doga” classes. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like…doggie yoga!
Combining massage, meditation and gentle stretching, doga classes offer the chance to enjoy quality one-on-one time. Best of all, once you get the hang of it, you can do it just about anywhere…your home, your yard or even the park! Ohmmmmm!
Of course, as fun as these summertime activities are, it can be a challenge to keep your pet from tracking the outdoors into your house. So be sure to wipe down your dog’s coat, belly and paws with a damp towel before coming inside. And if that’s not enough, BISSELL’s Symphony™ Pet All-in-One Vacuum and Steam Mop makes it easy to tackle muddy paw prints on both carpets and hard floors.
Now go grab your pup and enjoy your summer!
For more ways to live happier and healthier with pets, visit my website, Kristen Levine Pet Living.
Written by:
Kristen Levine, Pet Lifestyle Expert
April 29, 2016