Fun Summer Activities for the Whole Family (Fur Kids Included)
Soon summer will be upon us, the kids will be out of school, and the hunt for local activities will become a weekly habit. Perhaps this year you have decided to consider the entire family in the fun, including the family dog. Whether you are planning a staycation or the ultimate road trip, we’ve compiled some cool ideas for hot summer days, and with the kids and family pet in tow.
Life’s a Beach
For many of us, the warm days bring out the urge for water. And, there’s nothing quite like a day on Folsom Lake. Whether you are biking, boating, camping, or hiking, keep the following water safety tips in mind for Fido:
- Make sure your dog wears a fitted, good quality canine life jacket, when boating or swimming.
- Take frequent shade breaks by finding a tree-covered grove or by bringing a tarp or umbrella.
- Keep your pet hydrated by providing fresh water throughout the day.
- Remember that not all dogs are strong swimmers and keep him close to you when in the water.
- Have something other than sand for your pet to chillax on.
For the complete list of outdoor and water safety tips, refer to our blog post, Warm Weather and Pet Water Safety.
Hit the Trails
Living near the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills offers an endless array of hiking possibilities. In fact, the Tahoe National Forest has over 600 miles of hiking trails you can enjoy with your whole family and your (leashed) best friend. Is your pet of the equine variety? No problem! There are also numerous horse trails in Placer County. Another favorite outdoor spot is Auburn State Recreation Area, sure to please both two-legged and four-legged hikers.
Oh, and don’t forget those important vaccines and parasite preventives, since natural beauty also entails dealing with creepy crawlies and wildlife, too.
Doggie Dining
If you and your family enjoy the al fresco dinning experience, why not check out some of the many hip, tasty, AND dog-welcoming restaurants in the area, such as Boneshaker Community Brewery, Wild Chicken Coffee in Loomis, and Jack’s Urban Eats in Roseville.
Don’t feel like going out? How about hosting a backyard barbeque with friends and family. Make it a doggie play date by creating a pet-safe area in the yard where pets can be observed while everyone enjoys their burgers and beers.
Park It
The entire family can enjoy spending the morning or evening at one of our local dog parks, like RRUFF Dog Park, an off-leash park here in Rocklin, Ashley Dog Park in Auburn, and several other dog park options in Roseville. Bring a Frisbee or a soccer ball for upbeat exercise everyone will enjoy. You can even make a day of it by bringing a picnic lunch to feast upon after a morning of running (and, after you leave the doggie area, of course).
No Dogs Allowed
There will be times when you simply cannot bring your pet along because of the rules (boo) or because you’ve determined it isn’t safe (such as a long road trip or flight). For those vacations and situations, don’t forget your friends at Rocklin Ranch who will treat your pet to a home away from home. We board both cats and dogs and welcome you to come tour our facilities.
Your pet will be treated to her very own vacation with us! Give us a call to inquire.
When it comes to summertime fun, there are so many wonderful activities that allow us to include our fur kids. Whether it means a stroll downtown, a day trip to visit family, or a weekend camping trip, there’s something of interest for everyone. And, best of all, your pet will simply be happy to spend time with you, no matter what activity you choose.