How to enjoy a safe picnic with your pet
Spring and summer are perfect seasons for picnics, and what could be better than enjoying a relaxing outdoor meal with your furry best friend by your side?
Including your dog in your picnic plans can be a lot of fun. However, it’s important to ensure their safety and well-being while you're enjoying your outdoor adventure.
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Dog-Friendly Picnic Tips
To help you have a dog-safe picnic, we've compiled some essential tips to keep in mind.
1. Choose a Pet-Friendly Location:
When planning your picnic, make sure to choose a pet-friendly location. Look for parks, beaches, or other outdoor areas that allow dogs and are safe for them to roam around.
Avoid places that are crowded or have prohibited areas for dogs, such as playgrounds or picnic areas with "no dogs allowed" signs.
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2. Pack Dog-Friendly Food:
Just like you pack food for yourself, make sure to pack dog-friendly food for your furry companion. Avoid giving your dog table scraps or human food. Human food can upset their stomach or be harmful to their health.
Instead, bring your dog's regular food or treats, and avoid foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and avocados. Also, remember to bring plenty of fresh water for your dog to stay hydrated.
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3. Bring Essential Dog Supplies:
In addition to food and water, make sure to pack essential dog supplies for your picnic adventure. This includes a leash, collar with ID tags, poop bags, and a first aid kit for your dog.
Keep your dog on a leash at all times, unless you are in an off-leash designated area. Always watch your dog when they’re off-lead to make sure they don’t wander off and get into any potential hazards.
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4. Provide Shade and Shelter:
Dogs can easily overheat, especially in hot weather. So it's important to provide shade and shelter for your furry friend during your picnic.
Look for a shaded area under trees or bring an umbrella or a pop-up tent to provide a cool and shaded spot for your dog to rest.
Avoid leaving your dog in direct sunlight for prolonged periods. In extreme cases, this can lead to heatstroke which can be life-threatening.
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5. Watch for Hazards:
Before setting up your picnic, survey the area for any potential hazards that could harm your dog. This includes sharp objects, toxic plants, trash, or other debris that your dog could ingest.
Keep your dog away from picnic areas with grills or open flames to prevent burns. Also, be mindful of other wildlife, such as bees or ants, which could potentially sting or bite your dog.
6. Keep Your Dog Entertained:
Just like humans, dogs can get bored during a picnic. To keep your furry friend entertained, bring toys or games that your dog enjoys, such as a frisbee, a ball, or a chew toy.
You can also involve your dog in some picnic activities, such as playing fetch or going for a short hike. Keeping your dog mentally and physically stimulated will help prevent them from getting restless or anxious.
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7. Be Considerate of Others:
While you may love your dog's company, not everyone may feel the same way. Be considerate of other picnic-goers by keeping your dog well-behaved and under control at all times.
Keep your dog from begging for food from other picnickers. And always clean up after your dog to ensure the area remains clean and enjoyable for everyone.
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If possible you should always avoid bringing foods that could harm your dog. Things like grapes, chocolates or raisins should always be kept well out of reach of your pet.
Safe alternative foods to include:
- Cooked meats
- Broccoli
- Celery
- Cucumbers
- Lactose-free cheeses
- Carrots
- Green beans
- Peppers
- Strawberries
- Mango
- Cauliflower
- Apple slices
- Sweet potatoes
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Favourite supplies for dog-friendly picnics:
Here is our list of things we love to take along with us on our picnic adventures.
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- Compostable dog poo bags
- Collapsible dog bowl
- Toys like frisbees and balls
- Treats like chew toys and dog-friendly baked goods
Having a dog-safe picnic needs planning and consideration of your furry friend’s needs. But, by following these tips we are sure you’ll have a pawsome time!