In one of the previous posts we have gone through the different aspects of preparation and travelling that should be kept in mind while planning a vacation with your pets. So in this post we shall see the various options that exist for us to have fun with our pets, on a vacation. Cats do not really like travelling and a change of environment. They prefer to be just where they are. It may be hurtful but it is true that if given a choice between moving to a new house with the same owner and staying in the same house with different owners, most cats will choose the latter. So it is preferred not to take a cat along while on a vacation. Most dogs however, would love to be wherever their master is. So they are the ideal pets to take along, on a vacation.
Vacations are a change of daily routine not just for you but also for your dog. So it is up to you to make sure that he has fun just as you do. Try to do fun things with your dog; things that the both of you do not get to do usually. But it is also important to be careful in whatever you do.
1. Hiking
Firstly, it should be taken into consideration if your dog is the kind that is suitable to walk long distances and in areas like that. You must prepare your dog for long hike by increasing the distance of his daily walk little by little. Make him wear dog booties if the ground where you are hiking might hurt his feet. It is a good idea to keep him on leash at all times. Also do not let him eat any leaves or drink water from any stream because you never know what might be poisonous or bad for health.
2. Camping
Camping too can be a fun experience if you take all the required measures. Carry a separate tent for your dog, complete with his bedding and favorite toy. While you sit around the campfire he can laze away near you but again, while he is on leash. Be sure to keep him away from the fire and other harmful objects.
3. Time in the Park
A park is always the ideal spot to relax and spend some time with loved ones. So why not take your dog there? You can play loads of games like Frisbee and fetch or just the plain old running race. When both of you get tired, you can just spread out your mat, eat the yummy snacks and take a nap. This could be your perfect picnic.
4. Beaches and Boating
Whether it is to beat the heat or just to marvel the beauty of the experience, take a plunge with your dog. Most dogs will love this. But take care not to go too far with him because of course, he is not an ace swimmer. Be sure not to completely exhaust him. You can also go boating with him. But first he must be taught to sit in one place without getting restless.
5. Spa relaxation
Don’t we all love to be fussed over? Why not indulge our dogs in the same luxury? Take your dog to be pampered. After all, I am sure you will agree to the fact that he, too, deserves some fussing over after the whole year of him guarding you and your family.
It is a nice thing to take your dog along with you on your vacation. But this might put a limit on the number of things you can do. Nevertheless, you can take this as an opportunity to spend more quality time with your four-legged friend. Sometimes you may not be allowed to go to some places with an animal but that gives you the chance to explore other places which are permitted for dogs as well. For example, an outdoor art exhibit or private gallery may allow your dog even if the museum does not.
Most of the above mentioned places need to be checked before to know if they allow dogs or not. It is always advised to go to a dog-friendly place. The weather too needs to be taken into consideration. Then check which breeds of dogs are suitable for the activities that you have in mind. Do not you’re your dog do anything that he is not capable of. Before venturing out into these areas it is better to apply flea and tick repellents on your dog so that he will not bring any unwanted guests back home and carry dog soap or shampoo. Also carry medication and a first aid kit, just in case either of you might need it. Food and doggie treat are a must. It is also important to clean up after your dog so that it will not be a nuisance for the people with you. We must all have a basic social sense. Most important of all, be sure not to leave your dog with just anybody. Be with him at all times and never let him wander away. Have a fun holiday!