Places to Take Your Dog for a Day Out

Donna Sager
Anyone who owns a dog knows how much they love to run. Play, exercise, and especially go for a trip even if it's still in your own town. Why not take them to someplace that they want to go instead of just out to run your everyday errands? There are many cities and towns that offer lots of fun and exciting places that are there just for your dog. These places include and are not limited to dog parks, dog beaches, hiking, dog events, and even outdoor dining for dogs. There are several websites you can go to find one of these special dog places if you have never been to one or are looking for something new.

There are more than 1200 dog parks located in the US alone. These dog parks include both on leash and off leash parks. They are fenced in with plenty of room for your dogs to run play and interact with other dogs. There are benches for the dog owners where they can sit and interact with other pet owners while they watch their dogs frolic and play and get the exercise they need. They have places where you can get water for your dogs when they become thirsty from all their excitement. They also have bins to dispose of your dogs waste. Each dog park varies and has their own set of rules and guidelines. You should follow proper dog park etiquette while visiting one as you don't want to discourage other pet owners and you don't want to make your pet unwanted at the park. You should always clean up after your own pet and be kind to others and their pets. Keep the parks enjoyable for all pets and their owners. You can even visit dogpark.com for a list of dog parks.

There are over 200 dog friendly beaches, but a lot of beaches ban dogs. Proper dog beach etiquette is a must. Always keep your dog leashed when there is a leash law, always clean up after your dog by using a poop bag or pooper scooper, do not let your dog visit with other beach-goers or dogs, unless welcomed , and if using an official off-leash area, your dog needs to be well-behaved and must listen to your verbal commands. Your dog may love a trip to the beach where it can run along the shore line or take a swim in the ocean or the lake. Each beach is different and like the parks some are on leash and some are off leash. Most dog beaches do include fencing. Some have grass for the dogs to play in and tables for the owners to relax at while watching their dogs run, swim, and interact with other dogs. Remember to keep an eye on your pet and clean up after it. With so many beaches already banning dogs, you don't want to chance your pet causing unhappiness at any of the few that do still allow them.

There are many events for dogs every year. DogFriendly.com has a listing of many popular dog events. There is the 40 minute cruise on the Potomac River on the Miss Christin on the second Thursday of each month in Alexandria, Virginia, the Puppy Party on Saturdays from 9-11 in Arlington, Virginia, and many more. There is almost always some kind of event going on that your dog will surely enjoy. Do some research and find an event that both you and your dog will enjoy. A dog can sense its owners feelings, and if they sense you are unhappy or don't want to be at a certain event, it can make them unhappy to be there also.

All dogs love exercise and interaction. You can always find something new, fun and exciting to do with your dog. Whether it's something new or your dogs' favorite spot take them for a day out and let them be themselves and enjoy a day out with you.

Published by Donna Sager

My name is Donna (Bawden) Sager. I am happily married to Maurice Sager. We met on May 6,2003 and were married on May 7, 2005. We have no children,3 dogs, and 11 rabbits.  View profile

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