Enjoy summer while sticking close to your Cozy Cave
We've all done such a good job this spring: we’ve washed our hands often, worked from home, avoided in-person contact with our human friends (thank goodness for dog snuggles!)
Now it’s summer, and as quarantine relaxes our minds turn to holiday. We’re ready to jump on a plane, sail away, or at least pack the car for a long getaway. But while we would love to indulge our wanderlust, we understand that such travels are still not a great idea. That’s hard on humans.
But you know who loves it? Your dogs!
Rarely will you find your dog disappointed to spend more time with you -- so why not make this your pal’s BEST summer ever?
Here are a few of our tips for orchestrating a memorable canine “staycation”:
1. Get in a Bit of Exercise
Admittedly, it’s more exercise for you than for your pup, but we are excited to show off our new Dog Bicycle Basket! Cruise around town with your best bud while he enjoys familiar sites from a brand new vantage point!
2. Hit the Spa
Given the constraints of the past few months, it’s likely that EVERYONE in your home could use a trip to the groomer! While we don’t advocate taking clippers into your own hands, there are several healthy, pampering treatments you can offer your dog at home.
Take time during staycation to banish tear stains with a blueberry facial; apply repair balm to cracked paws and noses; and draw a conditioning bath to treat dry, itchy skin. Your refreshed pooch will be ready to return to his normal work-at-home duties looking like a million bucks.
The extra time at home also provides a chance to build new grooming habits: If you've been hesitant to brush your dog's teeth, or if you've given up the fight in the past, now is your opportunity to regularly and persistently implement the practice.
Looking for gentle, effective products? Find a few of our favorites on our Staycation Pinterest board.
3. Construct a Puppy Waterpark
Most of us won’t dip our toes into the sea this summer, but with a little creativity your pup can go for a splash in the garden! Keep it simple with a kiddie pool or sprinkler, or check out some of the innovative ideas found on our Staycation Pinterest board! Bonus: Building a waterpark is a great engineering lesson for upper-primary and secondary students. Materials such as pool noodles and PVC pipe are inexpensive and safe for experimentation.
4. Cool Off with a Tropical Treat
After fun in the sun, help your best pal cool off with these simple, good-for-him (and you!) Pineapple Pupsicles -- recipe courtesy of our friends at Belly Full!
Not a kitchen wizard? No matter what, always keep cool, fresh water available to your dog, especially during hot weather.
Find more recipes on our Staycation Pinterest board.
5. End the Day with a Massage
Massage is the ultimate luxury, even for your dog. And, if your dog is aging or experiences arthritis or sore joints, it’s the best treatment you can give without veterinary intervention. Canine massage goes beyond the belly rub, but can be administered by any loving family member with just a little practice.
Check out this tutorial video to learn how:
