Get ready for an unforgettable summer filled with pawsome activities and bonding time with your furry best friend! We've dug up a list of fantastic activities inspired by athletes and their canine companions, filled with substance, facts, and references to make your summer a tail-wagging success.
MAKE A SPLASH: SWIMMING FUN
Swimming is not only a blast, but it's also an excellent low-impact exercise to strengthen your dog's body. Dr. Jennifer Coates, a veterinary advisor, states that swimming can help improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and joint flexibility in dogs (PetMD).
Introduce your PUP to the water positively and at their own pace. Checkout our checklist for the correct way to introduce your PUP to the water.
PADDLE BOARD PUPARAZZI
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is another fantastic water activity for you and your canine companion. A study published in Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports showed that maintaining balance on an unstable surface like a SUP helps improve dogs' core and limb muscle strength.
Pro SUPer Kari Schibevaag and her dog Truls recommend choosing a stable paddleboard with plenty of room and grip for your pup's paws, and always use a life jacket for safety.
HIKE, EXPLORE, AND PAWSOME ADVENTURES
Embarking on hiking adventures with your dog not only keeps you both mentally and physically stimulated but also strengthens the bond between you. Dr. Susan Nelson, a veterinarian and assistant professor at Kansas State University, suggests that hiking provides excellent mental stimulation and exercise for dogs (WebMD).
To ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience, proper gear and visibility are crucial. A High Visibility Reflective Dog Vest from SafetyPUP XD can be a lifesaver in various situations. This vest significantly increases your dog's visibility to other hikers, cyclists, or motorists, reducing the risk of accidents or unwanted encounters. The bright colors and reflective strips allow your dog to be seen from a distance, ensuring their safety on the trails.
Additionally, consider these tips to maximize your dog's safety during your hiking escapades:
- Choose the right trail: Use apps like AllTrails or online resources like the Hiking with Dogs Facebook group to find trails suitable for your pup's size, breed, and fitness level.
- Hydration: Bring enough water for both you and your dog, and take frequent breaks to prevent dehydration.
- Weather considerations: Avoid hiking during extreme temperatures, and opt for early morning or late evening hikes on hot summer days.
- Leash and collar: Use a sturdy leash and collar to keep your dog under control and prevent them from chasing wildlife or getting lost. SafetyPUP XD offers a lifetime guaranteed Reflective Climbing Rope Leash that will do the trick.
- First aid kit: Carry a first aid kit specifically designed for dogs to address any potential injuries during your hike.
- Trail etiquette: Follow trail rules and clean up after your dog to maintain a pleasant environment for other hikers.
By taking these precautions and equipping your dog with a High Visibility Reflective Dog Vest from SafetyPUP XD, you'll be all set for a safe and memorable hiking adventure with your furry friend. Happy trails!
CAMPING CANINE CUDDLES
Sharing a camping adventure with your dog can strengthen your bond and provide a unique experience. Dr. Karen Shaw Becker, a veterinarian and author, states that camping can help reduce stress and anxiety for both dogs and their humans (Mercola Healthy Pets).
Ensure your four-legged friend is highly visible with SafetyPUP’s High Visibility Reflective Dog Vest and gets a good night’s sleep in a cozy bed with plenty of warmth. If you and your PUP love to snuggle, even better.
SNIFF AND SEEK: NOSE GAMES GALORE
Engaging your dog's sense of smell is an effective way to tire them out mentally. Dr. Alexandra Horowitz, a canine cognition researcher, explains that a dog's sense of smell is 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than ours (PBS).
Try tracking with your dog using a harness, a long line, and some treats. Start with mini-fields or straight lines and gradually increase the distance between treats as your dog progresses.
Remember, a happy and active summer with your furry best friend is just around the corner! Enjoy the time together while staying safe and creating precious memories.
References
Dr. Jennifer Coates on swimming benefits for dogs:
PetMD: https://www.petmd.com/dog/wellness/benefits-swimming-dogs
Study on core and limb muscle strength improvement in dogs through maintaining balance on unstable surfaces:
Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4640040/
Dr. Susan Nelson on hiking as a great way to provide mental stimulation and exercise for dogs:
WebMD: https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/exercise-dogs
Dr. Karen Shaw Becker on stress reduction and camping with dogs:
Mercola Healthy Pets: https://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2019/06/21/camping-with-dogs.aspx
Dr. Alexandra Horowitz on dogs' sense of smell:
PBS: https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/article/dogs-sense-of-smell/
AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/
Hiking with Dogs Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hikingdogsofficial/