12 Summers
Living in Texas has its downsides, especially during February when temperatures can soar into the 80s. This year, my husband and I decided to celebrate my birthday with a trip to the beach in Galveston, a getaway that turned out to be more than just a celebration—it became a moment of realization and reflection.
As we watched our dogs, Kimchi and Soju, experience the ocean for the first time, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of missed opportunities. At 8 and 7 years old, they’ve been loyal companions through the years, yet I realized there were so many adventures we hadn’t experienced together.
The warmth of the sun on our skin and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore made me acutely aware of the passing of time. In a state like Texas, where summers can be scorching, it’s easy to look forward to the cooler months.
But a simple thought crossed my mind: Most dogs live about 12 years, so that means we only get 12 summers with them. Whether it’s 4, 12, or even 20 summers, each one is a gift, and it’s up to us to make the most of them.
With this perspective in mind, I want to share some ideas to help you create new memories with your dogs. Whether your pup is shy or outgoing, there are plenty of adventures to enjoy together. Remember, the key is to choose activities that both you and your dog enjoy.
Adventures For Shy Dogs:
When exploring new places, it’s important to seek out environments with minimal human and dog traffic. This helps reduce potential stressors for your dog, allowing them to feel more comfortable and relaxed. Consider varying your visit times and days to find the perfect setting for your dog’s needs. By being mindful of your dog’s comfort, you can ensure that both of you enjoy your adventures together to the fullest.
1. Explore Nature: Go hiking in the woods or on a trail where your dog can experience new scents and sights. It’s a great way to stimulate their senses and bond with nature. Adventure trails are relaxing for us humans as well.
2. Rent a SniffSpot: SniffSpot is a platform that lets you rent private areas for your reactive or apartment-dwelling dogs to safely explore and play.
3. Swimply: If your dog loves the water, consider renting a pool through Swimply for a fun swim session. It’s a great way to cool off and enjoy the water together.
4. Try Dog Sports: Introduce your dog to a new sport like agility, nosework, barn hunt, or rally. Not only are these activities mentally stimulating, but they also help build confidence.
5. Visit a Park: Take your dog to a park for a change of scenery. It’s a great way to let them stretch their legs and enjoy the outdoors.
6. Join a Class: Look for classes that cater to shy or reactive dogs. These classes can help build confidence and social skills in a controlled environment.
7. Plan a Trip: Consider planning a trip to a pet-friendly Airbnb or hotel. A change of environment can be exciting and stimulating for you and your dog.
8. Trick Training: Teaching your dog new tricks can be very rewarding and is great for confidence building.
9. Bake Together: Look up some fun recipes to make dog treats and do some taste tests with them to see what they love the most.
10. Take a Moment: Cuddle up in bed or on the couch to watch your favorite movie. Share some dog friendly snacks and take the time to appreciate the time you have with them.
Adventures For Outgoing Dogs:
1. Embrace Adventure: Go hiking in the woods or on a trail to satisfy your dog’s adventurous spirit. It’s a great way to explore new terrain and bond with your furry friend.
2. Go Swimming: Find a dog-friendly stream, river, lake, or splash pad where you and your pup can beat the heat together. Prioritize water bodies that are free from hazards like blue algae for a safe and enjoyable experience
3. Try New Sports: Challenge your dog with a new sport like agility, nosework, barn hunt, or rally. These activities can provide mental and physical stimulation.
4. Beach Day: Visit a dog-friendly beach where your pup can run and splash in the waves. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and create lasting memories.
5. Park Playtime: Spend time at a park playing fetch or simply enjoying the outdoors. It’s a great way to bond and let your dog burn off some energy.
6. Join a Class: Consider joining a group class or enrolling in trick classes. Not only will your dog learn new skills, but you’ll also have the opportunity to bond with other dog owners.
7. Puppy Party: Throw a party for your dog with all your dog friends! Bake them a dog friendly cake or cookies to share.
8.Go for a Drive: You can go pick up a puppuccino and blast some Disney music to sing along to, or just cruise around town.
9. Photoshoots: Arrange photoshoots at popular spots to capture memories that you can cherish forever. It’s a fun way to document your adventures together.
10. Plan a Getaway: Treat your dog to a vacation by planning a trip to a pet-friendly Airbnb or hotel. It’s a great way to enjoy a change of scenery and create new memories together.
Most important thing: Having fun!
Having new experiences with your dog can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s essential to pay attention to their body language. Dogs communicate their feelings and comfort levels through subtle cues, so it’s crucial to be observant. If you notice signs of discomfort or stress, such as panting, pacing, or avoiding eye contact, it’s a clear indication that your dog may not be enjoying the current activity. In such cases, it’s best to redirect your focus and try something else. The goal is for both you and your dog to enjoy the adventure, so always prioritize your dog’s well-being and comfort.
As I watched Kimchi and Soju explore the beach, I realized that these moments of joy and adventure are what make life truly special. Our dogs bring so much love and happiness into our lives, and it’s important to cherish every moment we have with them. Whether it’s a trip to the beach, a hike in the woods, or a simple day at the park, every experience we share with our dogs helps strengthen our bond and create lasting memories.
As the summer approaches and the days grow longer, I encourage you to make the most of each moment with your dog. Whether you have 12 summers or 1, every summer is a gift. So get out there, explore new places, try new activities, go on adventures and most importantly, enjoy every moment with your dogs. Because in the end, it’s these moments that we’ll cherish forever.
I hope these ideas inspire you to create new memories with your dogs and make the most of your time together, as every summer is a gift to be treasured. Here’s to many more summers filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable adventures with our dogs.
