Are you ready for summer?
The days are getting longer and the weather is getting warmer! Are you and your pup ready for some summertime fun? Here are some ways to keep it cool this summer with your furry friend!
For The Water Dog
Is your pup a natural born swimmer? Consider taking them to your local watering hole! Check out pet-friendly open spaces or pools. For those of you near Denver, here is The 9 Best Places to Take Your Dog Swimming Near Denver.
Complete with indoor dog-centric pools, this list has all different types of swimming options! Swimming can be a great activity for your pet to get out their zoomies, socialize, and keep cool when the heat gets to be too much.
Why Swimming is Good For Your Dog
Just like us humans, water activities can be beneficial for your four-legged friends. If your pet struggles with any mobility or pain, swimming is a way to take the pressure off. There’s even designated water therapy for dogs with a little extra weight or in need of rehabilitation. For more information, check out How Hydrotherapy and Swimming Can Benefit Dogs.
Paddle Boarding with Your Pup
Are you and your pup ready for a challenge? Consider taking them out on a paddle board! Paddle boarding has been all the rage recently. You can find blow up paddle boards for sale all over the place.
Paddle boarding can be as intense or relaxing as you want – it is a great way to choose your own adventure. Grab you and your furry friend a life jacket and hit the water! Your pet may enjoy chilling with you on the paddle board or swimming alongside you – what a grand adventure! For more information and how-to, check out SUP With Your Pup! Here’s How to Stand Up Paddle Board With Dogs.
If balance might be a challenge, consider kayaking instead. Kayaking will give you a little more flexibility and less tipping risk. Your pet may be more comfortable sitting alongside you in a more enclosed vessel.
A Romp in the Stream
If swimming isn’t for your pup, consider finding a new walking route with a stream! This will allow your doggo to cool off and splash around without taking a full-fledged dip. This is perfect for those that might be a little more timid to the water.
Fun At Home
Has your pet ever checked out the sprinklers? Just like kiddos, some dogs may love a splash in the yard! On a particularly hot day, try tossing the ball in the backyard with the added fun of a hose or sprinkler.
An Outdoor Bath
An added bonus if your pet is comfortable with the hose is that you can bathe them outdoors! Consider lathering them up and turning the rinse process into a fun little game. This can be an easier cleanup for you, too as opposed to bathing indoors.
Refreshing Treat
If your furry friend is not about water, consider giving them a refreshing treat instead! If your four-legged friend loves pumpkin, pop some pumpkin puree into a bowl of ice. This can bring some added enrichment… not to mention all the health benefits of pumpkin puree!
For an easy treat, try filling a Kong toy with peanut butter and freezing it. You can even add in a mix of pumpkin puree and kibble. This will keep your pup occupied. It will take them time to dig out all that yummy goodness!
Keepin’ it Cool
No matter how you and your pet spend the summer, make sure you pay attention to their comfortability. No one wants to get overheated! It might be time to make their walks earlier or later in the day to protect their paws.
No matter what you do, make sure you continue to give your pet time to have some fun! This may look a little differently season to season. It is important to be flexible and adaptive to your pup’s needs and try new things!
