Are you running out of ideas and wondering what else can you do with your dog this summer?
We compiled a list of enjoyable activities you might want to try:
CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH A DOOG POOL PARTY
Get ready for summer with a DOOG Pop-Up Pool. You can cool your dog or wash them with this fantastic outdoor dog pool that pops up with the flick of a wrist. Best of all it folds down into a neat little pouch for easy storage at home. To find a suitable size for your dog, head to https://www.doog.com.au/collections/dog-pools-1/products/pop-up-pet-pool-and-bath-new
GO SURFING, BOOGIE BOARDING OR CANOEING
Go to the lake, hire a canoe and explore the great outdoors with your dog. Boogie boarding for small dogs is also an entertaining activity or you might want to try surfing; make sure to choose the right surfboard and practice at home initially, it’s great for your dog’s balance and strength… and fun to watch! Some dogs love it and some don’t want any part of it.
TAKE A ROAD TRIP
Some dogs love riding in cars while some dislike it. Plan ahead by making a dog checklist. Your list should contain items such as; carrier, crate, harness, collar, id tag, leash, bedding, bowls, water, towels, chew toys, car sickness meds (if/as needed), brushes, poop bags, cleaning supplies, vet contact details and copy of health records in case of an emergency.
Most important – NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG UNATTENDED IN A CAR!
CAMP WITH DOGS
Nearly all dogs and pups love exploring the outdoors. There is plenty of fresh air, open space to run around, gorgeous scenery, new scents and break from mundane (city) life.
Remember to do your research prior to your trip and follow all safety instructions. Abide by the signage, ensure drinking water and shaded spots are available, avoid heat stroke, scoop their poop and be prepared in case of emergencies.
HIKE WITH DOGS
If you are looking for something different, you may want to try a hike (get vet clearance if your pet has health conditions). Hikes are a great form of exercise and offer the opportunity to bond with your dog and your best friend can explore new territories and trails.
Appropriate hydration, food, first-aid kit, treats and even dog boots should be at the top of your inventory. After each hike and camping trip check for ticks, burrs, thorns or other foreign objects. Give your dog a bath to wash off excess plant or dirt matter.
Be careful; extreme hiking will place a lot of stress on your dog’s elbows and may potentially increase the inflammatory process for dogs with Elbow Dysplasia.
MAKE ICE BLOCKS, HOMEMADE TREATS AND STUFFED KONGS
Food puzzles, Kong and objects filled with canned or frozen food offers unlimited diversity that can be manipulated by your dog to access food indoors and outdoors. Keep your dog refreshed and hydrated with frozen homemade and Ice-treats during the day.
For inspiration head to https://www.australiandoglover.com/2016/01/easy-summer-treats-for-dogs.html and https://www.kongcompany.com/recipes for Kong’s popular stuffing recipes.
CREATE AN AGILITY COURSE IN YOUR BACKYARD
With a few simple pieces of equipment (a Hula Hoop, two pylons, dowelling or a hockey stick, and mesh tunnel), you can get start applying the essentials of agility. Check out moderndogmagazine.com/diyagility for complete instructions for setting up your own DIY backyard course!
SWIM AT A DOG FRIENDLY BEACH
Finding a dog friendly beach where you and your pooch can swim can be challenging, nevertheless don’t despair since there are several great beaches in NSW where you are both welcome. Abide by the signage, ensure drinking water is available and avoid heat stroke.
Our top 5 beach spots:
- Sirius Cove Reserve, Mosman
- Culburra Beach, Culburra
- Rose Bay Beach and Dumaresq Reserve, Rose Bay
- Greenhills Beach, Cronulla
- Bayview Dog Park in Rowland Reserve, Bayview
For a comprehensive list of Australia’s Best Dog Friendly beaches head to https://www.australiandoglover.com/2016/01/australias-best-dog-friendly-beaches.html
DOGA
Try Doga – yoga with your dog!
Excellent opportunity to relax from daily and work stress by exercising while connecting with your animal companion.
TAKE YOUR DOG FOR HYDROTHERAPY (UNDERWATER TREADMILL)
Hydrotherapy is becoming a popular therapy for dogs rehabilitating post injury, surgery and for weight reduction.
Extended exercises in water and swimming have been shown to reduce oedema, inflammation, and peripheral neuropathic pain for certain orthopaedic conditions.
Swimming or underwater treadmill increases endurance and reduces impact on joints through increase in buoyancy, builds muscle strength, provides better control of joint range of motion and more.
Check out the Animal Rehab Klinik, who uses a state-of-the-art underwater treadmill! The water is perfect for all dogs at any time of year and likewise the experience is lots of fun.
GO FOR A WALK
Walking is a wonderful endurance exercise that bonds you with your pupper. Regular walking is important to every dog whether they do activities on the weekend or not. Ideally, a thirty minute walk a day is wonderful and has many health benefits inclusive of weight maintenance, cardiac, musculoskeletal, and mental. On hot days; keep the walks to early mornings and late evenings.
VISIT DOG FRIENDLY HOTEL AND HAVE A COOL DRINK
Dine out with your dog! Get out of the kitchen and go for a stroll to the nearest dog friendly hotel with outdoor seating. Have a cool drink and bond with your best mate.
If your dog has doubtful table manners, grab some take-out and head to the park instead.
GO TREASURE HUNTING WITH GEOCACHING
Geocaching is the 21st century search for hidden treasures, using GPS to find specific locations and ‘buried’ treasures.
Dogs make great companions while geocaching since they are inquisitive and full of energy. Take them to the forest or even a park and prepare to have a blast. To find a Geocache in Australia head to https://geocaching.com.au/ or around the world; https://www.geocaching.com
LEARN HOW TO DIVE / DOCK JUMPING
Diving Dogs or Dock Dogs is one of the fastest growing canine sports. Dock Dogs is a fun, exciting but easy to do sport, almost any dog can do it, as long as they love water, know how to swim, and have a natural passion for retrieving.
A simple boat dock, lakeshore or swimming pool will do. Dock Dogs training aims to increase their confidence and play drive! If your dog would like to take up the sport head to http://dockdogsaustralia.com.au/how-to-get-involved
Variety is the spice of life!
Enjoy your summer, keep your dog cool and hydrated, avoid stagnation, overuse and injury by providing a varied amount of exercise, stimulation and enrichment. And most important STAY SAFE!
To discuss your specific dog care needs or learn more about Pet Nurture, contact us on 0403 939 202 or Enquiries@PetNurture.com.au
Disclaimer
Individual blogs are based upon the opinions of the specific author, who retains full copyright. The material is not intended as medical advice, it’s intended as a sharing of knowledge and information.
We are not veterinarians and do not diagnose any conditions, perform surgery or prescribe medications. We encourage you to make your own pet health care choices in collaboration with a certified pet health care professional.
