Fall is one of the most wonderful times of the year. Leaves are changing color, and sweater weather offers a reprieve from the hot summer months. You might be looking for things you can do to enjoy the season with your dog. We’ve put together a few ideas for ways to celebrate fall with your fur baby.
Celebrating Fall With Your Whole Family
Head to an Apple Orchard
While fall may be a wonderful time to go look at the leaves, you might also want to grab yourself a delicious cup of cider! Check out your area for apple orchards! Fall is when most apple trees start to produce fruit. You can probably find a few places in your area that allow apple picking. Many of these family farms also produce their own apple cider for you to take home. Some might even make cider doughnuts.
While we can’t recommend giving your dog sweet drinks or fried treats, they can certainly appreciate the time spent outdoors.
Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Just like with apple picking, picking pumpkins can be a great activity to get you and your dog outdoors. Get your comfiest sweater on and leash your pup. You’ll certainly have lots of fun picking the best pumpkin for your dog themed jack-o-lantern
If you do decide to bring your dog to a local pumpkin patch, just be sure to check the rules first. Some places don’t want to have pets at the pumpkin patch. While it can be a lot of fun for you and your dog, you don’t want to break any rules.
Do Some Baking
If you’re spending time strolling through the pumpkin patch, you may as well do some baking too. Pumpkin’s not just great in your spiced lattes, you can bake pumpkin bread, pumpkin bars or the classic pumpkin pie. Along with your desserts, pumpkin is actually great for your dog.
Pumpkin is packed with fiber and it can really help to level out your dog’s digestion. Adding just a bit to your dog’s dinner can help with an upset stomach or help to keep them regular. Just make sure you don’t overdo it with the pumpkin and be sure to keep any sugar or spices out of your dog’s food.
Go Trick-or-Treating
What’s more fun this time of year than dressing up and going Trick-or-Treating? And why should people get to have all the fun? There are many fun and exciting costumes that are made for dogs of all sizes that you can try.
Go Tailgating
Football is back in full swing, and this means tailgating. While your pet likely can’t come to an actual football game with you, why not get outside with some friends or neighbors to enjoy the game? Tailgating is a great way to socialize with friends while still staying outdoors and safe.
Be sure to bring your dog some treats and their favorite toys. You’ll be able to give them some outdoor activity while enjoying the company of others as well.
Take a Hike
If you’re not one for football, then hitting the great outdoors might be a better option. There are certainly numerous outdoor spaces for you and your dog to enjoy. Or you might even go for a camping excursion while you’re at it.
Many national or state parks allow dogs to be on their trails. Just make sure you follow the posted rules as they relate to dogs. Most parks that allow dogs also state that the dog must be leashed at all times.
Hit The Road
While most people like to vacation during the summer or winter, fall can be a great time to get away too. The good news about this is that accommodations are usually discounted since most people are at home tending to school aged children.
Take a look at pet-friendly hotels and plan a little getaway for you and your fur baby. Just make sure you follow the rules at any accommodations and try your best not to leave your dog alone in your room. This can bother other travelers, and really you’re there to enjoy time with your pet.
Even if you can’t get away for the season, that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. You can enjoy some pumpkin carving, running through piles of leaves, or just a simple movie night. Whatever you choose, your dog is certain to enjoy spending dedicated time with you.