When your dog loves to be active as much as you do, a free summer day turns into a great opportunity for adventure. From lounging on the beach to exploring a new hiking trail to even going on a weekend camping trip together, outdoor activities are perfect for making the most of warm weather and bonding with your canine best friend. It can be a good way.
Of course, a successful summer day out with your dog requires a bit of prep work — and one Walmart+ A membership can help you stock up on everything you need and plan the perfect day together. Here’s what you need to know to make your next adventure the most fun it can be, whether a swim at the lake or a run along a forest trail is calling your name.
Plan your itinerary ahead of time
Before packing your bags, spend some time researching your destination. The first thing you’ll want to check is whether a trail, beach, park or campground is dog-friendly—and where exactly dogs are allowed. For example, many national parks include dog-friendly campsites but often restrict dog access to trails and other secluded areas. The same goes for leash regulations: some trails and beaches may require dogs to be on a leash, while others won’t let them roam freely. If you plan to hike, do some research to make sure the terrain is safe and accessible too – not all dogs will be comfortable scaling steep cliff faces.
Once you’ve found a destination that suits your needs, plan your route. If it’s a multi-hour drive from your home, you’ll want to plan where you’ll stop for potty breaks. Walmart+ Members can take 10 cents off every gallon of gas at 13,000 gas stations to save on fuel costs.
Stay hydrated
Don’t underestimate how much water both you and your dog will need to stay hydrated – especially if the weather is hot and sunny. Both exercise and heat will increase the amount of water your dog needs, so you’ll want to make sure you pack enough water so you can both stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause serious medical problems in dogs, so it’s best to play it safe and bring more water than you think.
Pack the essentials
Whether you’re heading to the beach 15 minutes down the road or further Afield State Park, you’ll want to make sure you pack a bag with everything your dog needs. In addition to plenty of water and a collapsible bowl or water bottle, pack an extra serving or two of food if you’re going to be out longer than expected. You’ll also want extra poop bags (so you don’t leave a trace!), a spare leash and harness (just in case), and pet wipes (to clean up those dirty paws before you get back in the car). . a Walmart+ Member makes it easy for you to stock up on any type of supplies you need. In addition to free delivery from your store, you’ll get free shipping with no orders – saving you money and freeing up your time for more adventures.
Prepare for emergencies
When you’re getting ready to spend a day (or more) outdoors in nature, it’s best to be prepared for any eventuality. Invest in a dog emergency kit with first aid supplies in case of injury. Do some research on this region as well. Dry, barren habitats like deserts may be home to rattlesnakes, while in wooded areas you’ll be sharing trails with bears, coyotes, and other wildlife. No matter where you go, always check your dog for ticks after hiking or playing outside.
Start small, then work up to bigger adventures
Even if you have a high-energy, active dog, it’s best to ease them into outdoor adventures. If they’ve never been on a hike before or spent the night in a tent before, they won’t know what to expect. Choosing a shorter, more manageable trip is a great way to gauge their reactions to new places. If they seem nervous or stressed, you can always end the excursion early and try again another day. Think of it this way: It’s always better to start small and work your way up to the long haul rather than going all in over your head.
Don’t forget manners
Rewarding your dog with some of their favorite treats is a great way to round off a fun day outside. Use your own Walmart+ A subscription to stock up on some of your dog’s favorites, from dental treats to jerky, with free delivery from stores. If you need ideas, may we suggest Milk Bone Peanut Butter Soft Dog Bites with JIF Peanut Butter or Zooke’s Mini Naturals treats gentle dog training?
Start your 30-day free trial Walmart+ Save more money today when planning your next summer getaway. Happy adventuring!
¹Gas Savings: *5 & Savings in AL & OK only. Subject to change.
²Free Shipping: $35 min order. Restrictions apply.
³Free Shipping: Most marketplace items exclude freight and some location surcharges.
