When we think of summer, we think of holidays. But they rarely include our dogs. Instead, we leave them in the kennels as they wait patiently for our return. This is unfair, but unfortunately dogs are not suited for airplanes or hotel rooms. But, do you have to go on holiday to enjoy the summer? Can’t you enjoy it at home with your pet instead? You certainly can. Here are just a few ways you can enjoy the sun with man’s best friend.

Gio and Vinny

Gio and Vinny

A Trip To The Beach
If you have a beach nearby, you can always go and enjoy the sun closer to home. You can take your dog with you and let him run off on the sands into the distance. He will love dipping in and out of the cool water, and it is also quite fun to see them swim over the waves. Although you should be careful how far in your throw it or you may find yourself on a rescue mission. Also, do not forget to check the temperature of the sand before you let your dog loose. If it is too hot on the back of your hand, it is too hot on his paws. If the weather is hot, enough you can join him for a swim, and it does not have to be the beach. You can take your dog anywhere for a quick paddle.

Hillwalking
Rather than just walking your dog around town, why not take him on a trip into the countryside? You should always try to be adventurous and take more challenging routes. As long as you pack well you can journey as far as you like. We do recommend you get a light for his collar though because mist can fall quickly on mountains. Before you go, check the rules of the area where you are walking your dog. You may not be able to let him off his lead in certain areas.  You could consider making it more than a day trip. Take your dog camping and enjoy the outside world together. But do remember to check your dog for bugs and bites when you get back. You can stop this problem before it occurs with a good flea treatment. A flea spray is easy to use and acts as a strike on fleas before they set up home on your pet.

A Good Play
Dogs love a good mess around, but admit it, so do you. You love throwing the ball just as much as he loves catching it. You can treat both yourself and your dog by shopping for some new toys to play with this summer. You could buy a big ball that floats so that it is easy for him to find when he is playing in the water.

Bird Watching
Once you have had a walk or play with your dog, you can settle down and relax. You could take up birdwatching because dogs can be trained to sit outside quietly with their owners, watching the wildlife. Or, you can watch from the window. Dogs can learn to love this quiet and peaceful activity just as much as humans do.

We hope you find these ideas helpful and love having your dog at your side this summer.