By Bridget Domenighini, Peoria County Animal Protection Services
Many people find it easy to stay active outdoors with their pets during the spring and summer months, but as the weather turns cooler and we move into fall, it’s easy to slip into a pattern of inactivity. Finding ways to stay busy with your dog both indoors and outdoors can keep you both feeling happy and healthy throughout the year. If you’ve never tried the activities listed below, your dog might appreciate you giving them a shot!
Fall Hikes
Many places in the Peoria area are perfect for fall hikes. Find a trail you enjoy, and take Fido with you. Make sure your dog is secured by a leash and a flat buckle collar, and that he is wearing both identification tags and rabies registration tags for his safety. It’s also helpful to have your dog microchipped, just in case he slips out of his collar. Be a good park patron and keep your dog on the trails provided, and ensure he does not disturb wildlife or other dogs along the way.
Agility
Many dog-training facilities in central Illinois offer indoor arenas for agility. If your dog seems to have excess energy, this could be the sport for her! You can teach your dog to jump, run, and weave her way to success on the agility course; building a bond between the two of you, and giving her an outlet for all that built up energy. The training that goes into agility also stimulates your dog mentally, encouraging her to figure out solutions and work through obstacles quickly. You may find that your dog is more content at home after taking up a sport that uses the best of both her physical and mental abilities.
Dog Parks
If your dog is social and loves interaction with other canines, let him run off his energy at your local dog park. This is a great way to meet other dog lovers, and a good way to ensure your dog gets the exercise and socialization he needs — even when the weather is not perfect.
Hide and Seek
If you find yourself bored or stuck in the house due to the colder weather, test your canine’s search skills by teaching him to play hide and seek. Start out by asking him to sit and stay. Then let him watch you hide somewhere in the same room. Say ok and call him to you. Reward him when he comes to you by giving him a tasty treat. Once your dog picks up on the game, stop calling him; simply say ok from your hiding spot, and allow him to “find” you. Eventually, you will be able to hide anywhere in the house, and your dog will search for you. If you have kids, let them hide for your dog, and you may even get a few minutes to yourself on a rainy fall afternoon!
Car Rides
Most dogs love car rides, and this simple activity is something relaxing that both you and your dog can look forward to. Make it a Sunday afternoon tradition to take your dog on a road trip for ice cream, or just a leisurely ride through your favorite park or nature preserve to see the fall leaves. Older dogs that prefer to be lazy rather than chase younger pups at the dog park may appreciate the chance to lean out the window, and just take in the sights and smells of the Peoria area with their favorite person.
Just because the weather turns cool does not mean you have to stop having fun with your canine companion!
Check out these resources for other fun things to do with your dog:
www.bestfriends.org/dog-fun-things-to-do.aspx
www.dogplay.com/
If you see an animal who looks abandoned, neglected, or in distress, please call local animal control or law enforcement. Your call can mean the difference between responsible, humane care for the animal, or a lifetime of suffering. Peoria County Animal Protection Services can help if you lose your pet or see an animal injured or in need. Call PCAPS at 309-672-2440 for information or to report animal cruelty or abuse.
This article is sponsored by Waggin’ Tails Doggy Daycare and Resort, Goodfield, IL. Call 309-642-9299 or e-mail
waggintailsresort@gmail.com for your dogs boarding, doggy daycare, and grooming needs. Coming soon to Peoria!
Photo credit: ChristinLola/iStock