The Modesto Bee
Avoiding sun burns
If your pet is in the sun with you, and has light hair, or even bald spots-depending on the breed, you should really consider using sunblock! Its not just for people anymore, and pets DO get sunburned. If you are taking your furry friend to the lake, look into getting some sunblock that is safe for your pet! There are brands out there available, make sure to check with your vet because you definitely don’t want your pet to have a skin reaction to the sunscreen. Even on these cloudy/hazy days, its important to remember sunscreen!
Fun Games while its so hot outside!!
Trying to find a way to connect with your pet? Just wanna have some fun with your kids n your furry friend? Check out these goofy games!
Hide and Seek!!
Its a great way to train your pet to stay while you hide!!Sometimes, treats are necessary, and sometimes they cheat and break away early! Only reward the positive behavior, which is waiting until you give the go ahead. This can be even more fun if you have a couple dogs taking part!!
Find the Treat!!!
Ever hide eggs for an easter egg hunt?? Its a lot of fun, especially for your pets!If you have them stay in the garage while you hide the treats from them, and let ‘em go, just wait to see that craziness that ensues!! Whichever gets the most treats, wins!!! Obviously, I request that you use healthy treats, preferably from this site!!:D
Got any old tires hanging around?
Set up an obstacle course in your yard! Now this is a game for those who are willing to put time into it!! This can help your pet and you learn to communicate better (by teaching them how to get around your obstacle course) and can be fun as well! All you need is a few tires, a couple ropes for them to jump over, and maybe a trick for the finale!!
Training helps curb problem behaviors!
Well, if your going to have a pet, don’t you think both of you should be happy about it?!! Its not all one sided!! Anyone can see a happy dog. And a dog that exercises with its owner is much less likely to have behavior problems. Maybe its the one on one attention they get from their best pal, the one with the treats! Or maybe its because they are just too pooped from all of that fun exercising they’ve been doing- but while they are laying down tired, they AREN’T getting into the garbage, or into your food, etc. Another benefit is that these activities can be a big energizing boost for owners and their dogs. I always have a smile on my face when I walk a pet. What else is more simple, and yields such great results?:D
Swimming made fun AND safe!
Ok, so I know I am a broken record with the whole exercise with your pet thing. I assure you, its for good reason!! With as hot as it is lately, swimming with your pet is a great option to burn calories, and tire them out for the day. Of course, you can get involved as well and play a lively game of catch from one end to the next-you’ll be huffing and puffing before you know it! I always have fun throwing Dude’s tennis ball into the deep end-he’ll burn so many calories to get that ball!! Talk about a workout! And, if you are enjoying swimming in a lake with your pet, its always important to keep an eye on them to make sure they aren’t getting too tired, or short of breath. Also to keep it safe, you can also have your pet wear a doggie lifevest, or whats called Ruff Wear K-9 float coat. And, of course, make sure your pet is vaccinated before taking them to an area like a lake with a lot of pet traffic. This way, you ensure that your pet is getting a great workout, safely! Enjoy the heat while we have it, and make sure your pet does too!
