It always seems like the transition from summer to winter is short-lived. Before fall escapes us, we should all take a minute to enjoy the great weather with our pooch pals. Cooler air circulating about allows canines to caper about freely without becoming overheated or tired. Just make sure your buddy is prepared for the great outdoors by taking routine safety measures. Since fleas amplify in fall temperatures and ticks take a liking to leaf piles, make sure to keep Fido out of harm’s way with a flea and tick preventative of your choice. Remember to always have a pet first aid kit around so any encounters are cared for correctly. Also, keep plenty of water readily available for your thirsty pal, and make sure there is an identification tag on their collar in case their enthusiasm finds them lost. Once you have taken the required actions to enjoying a safe fall season with your pup, throw on your hoodie and get ready for some final fun in the sun (this time without the heat)!

Fall is a wonderful time to enjoy some camping before Jack Frost finds his way into the air. Make a checklist of camping supplies (water, food, sleeping bags, leash, etc.) and pick out a key spot to set up shop for some camp fire action. If cabins are your thing there are pet-friendly places to spend the fall nights on your camping trip. With nothing but the wide-open space there will be much time to throw a Frisbee or ball around with your pooch. Take a walk with your pal and discover all the attractive sights of nature together during the brisk days.  Hold your furry friend close when everyone gathers around at night for ghost stories to ease any scares that might ensue. Don’t forget to toss your canine a tasty dog treat while you indulge in a traditional s’more. Fall camping has never been so good!

If you want to camp but just can’t spare the extra time off, cut down the experience with a worthy day hike. As with camping, remember to pack the needed supplies before taking off on your shared day in the wilderness. While strolling through nature’s paths try to maintain your pooch on a leash to avoid any mishaps. Doggie hiking boots may also be a good idea to avoid any sharp objects, shattered glass, or rough terrains. Excessive heat has left for the year, so let the cool air relieve your workout all the way through the trails. There is so much to see in the fall time on a hiking trip with your pal, so don’t forget to take breaks for enjoying the picturesque surroundings. After the day is ended your pup will be on sight and smell overload, and a wagging tail is in order for the ride home.

Ever visited to an apple farm? If not, try it out this fall! If you have been before and like apple farms, perhaps your worthy dog will, too. Most places are home to lovely apple farms that only exist during the fall time. Canines love the free room of farms, nice people, and great smells around. Plus, most pups like to help on your apple picking adventures. The mass of apple picking farms also have hay rides, pumpkin patches, and other homegrown veggies and fruits (peaches, squash, plums, and more!). There are usually baked goods available for purchase – everything from cakes to jellies. To keep your pup from growing envious of all the human delectables around, bring a few dog treats to share and enjoy a day of fall apple picking.

End the fall season with doggie football, leaf jumping, geese gazing at the park, and (of course) trick-or-treating. With so much to get involved in and so little time to do it before the climate shifts yet again, you better grab your furry friend and make the most of these limited days. Fall is a wonderful opportunity to share time together sans the beads of sweat.