Things to Do with Your Fur Baby on National Dog Day
By Kate Harveston
Even if you already spoil your pooch on a regular basis, you should plan something a little extra special for them for this upcoming August 26th — National Dog Day! But perhaps you don’t want to go for the usual walk in the downtown dog park or take them to the pet store for the third time this week, so what’s an urbanite to do?
Here’s a look at a few simple activities that are perfect for city-goers searching for a way to make their dog’s day a little extra special.
1. Try “Doga”
It’s only fair that a physical activity with a body posture named after the downward dog also includes these four-legged companions in its activities. But while you may be familiar with the twists and stretches commonly associated with yoga, did you know that there’s a form of yoga that’s ideally suited for you and your dog, too?
Doga is a growing practice that gives pet owners the option of finding their inner Zen with their dogs seated — or stretched out — right beside them. Plus, there’s a long list of benefits that you and your dog will reap when you both roll your yoga mats out in the park and start stretching those cramped up muscles.
Because dogs are unpredictable, you can’t really expect your companion to mimic your every pose. Start off slow, take in the sun and maybe get distracted by roaming in the park for a little, too.
There’s also goat yoga, but Goat Week isn’t until the 2 week of June
2. Whip up Something Special to Eat
Nothing gets your dog’s tail wagging quite like the words “dinner,” and “treats.” So what better way to help them celebrate a day crafted to show them appreciation than by brewing up a dish made for two?
Whenever you cook in the kitchen, your pooch is likely to sit right by your side — or at least try. As the meat sizzles on the grill or the hamburger cooks in the pan, who could blame them? Now, you can decide to cook a doggo-friendly meal that they’re sure to enjoy, too. There are tons of cool recipes out there to make dog-friendly snacks and meals, such as pancakes, jerky, pizza, cake.
Homemade dog Jerky
Don’t feel like cooking? Many cities nowadays are likely to house dog-friendly restaurants that welcome both you and your four-legged friend for a delicious meal, too. Regardless of whether you feel like standing up to the plate or hanging in your apron for the day, make sure your dog gets to indulge their taste buds by devouring a tasty treat.
3. Take a Road Trip
While Fido may not be able to call shotgun or even dibs on where you go, that doesn’t mean he’s not just as eager as you are to get out and explore, too. We all know that many dogs love a ride in the car!
Road trips are for creating new memories while taking in the scenery provided by the beautiful routes you pass along the way. This alone qualifies your dog as the perfect road trip companion!
Remember that your dog may be even more excited than you to arrive at your new location. To survive a road trip with your dog, be sure to line your passenger seat up with their favorite squeaky toys while ensuring that your canine is adequately strapped in for the ride ahead, too.
4. Let Your Dog Take You for a Walk
Whenever you take your dog out for a little adventure, you may wonder what motivates them to want to go in what always seems to be the opposite direction. Today, give them the satisfaction of knowing that they can create their own path — with a little bit of guidance, of course.
Plan a pet-friendly route that’s away from potentially dangerous zones, including busy streets or highways. Keep your dog on a leash and let their sniffer point the way. Diverging from your regular route gives them the chance to take in a new array of sights and smells.
While you should spoil your dogs every day, National Dog Day gives you even more of an incentive to show your four-legged friends how much you care. So put down the remote, or the squeaky toy, and embark on an adventure. Because what better feeling is there than knowing that you’ve made your dog’s day?
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