I don’t know about you, but I tend to become envious when I see some of my friends’ social media accounts. Endless picturesque photos of hikes in the mountains, camping under the stars and discovering hidden waterfalls…with a dog by their side. I always sigh out of jealousy with thoughts of, “Man, I want to do those things.” But for some of us it’s just not possible. We have families, full time jobs and budget constraints. Maybe we have physical ailments or don’t have transportation to get there. Personally, I have a bad hip so strenuous physical activity is a BIG no-go for me. I have other animals at home I need to tend to, and I don’t have ANY sort of camping experience. I wouldn’t even know where to begin. So for the rest of us in the real world, I’ve created a list of time and budget-friendly ways that you too can seek adventure with your dog.
Although someday I’d like to try camping in the wilderness with Wynston and awake to the sunrise within nature’s serenity, it’s not in the cards right now. So I’ve been thinking – how else can Wynston and I explore new things with what we’ve been given thus far? Here are some ideas.
Time & Budget-Friendly Ways to Seek Adventure With Your Dog
Discover a New Walking Path
Taking your dog on the same walk route everyday gets boring for everyone. Step out of your comfort zone and walk your dog on a different path. Maybe hit up the neighborhood next door, or take a more scenic route. You may end up finding even more options when you try something new!
Research Local National Parks
Arizona is full of National parks. I bet you have something near to you as well! Google is your best friend. Research keywords like “dog-friendly National parks in Arizona.” You may be surprised to find that there is a location close to you that you’ve never been to! You don’t have to go on a crazy hike – just walking in a new natural environment will be exciting for your dog, and can provide some phenomenal photo ops!
Take a Staycation
Wynston loves hotels, which has encouraged me to travel with him more often. Even if it’s for one night, find a nice dog-friendly hotel or resort near you and book a stay! Sure, it’ll cost money, but you don’t need to stay at a five star resort. Just something different that you can your pup can enjoy. Wynston and I stayed in Sedona at the Amara Resort & Spa recently and it was AMAZING! We used IHG rewards points for our room, so I just paid for food and gas. The resort was right next to a gorgeous walking trail alongside Oak Creek. The experience allowed us to get away and discover a new place without all of the physical stress.
Camp in Your Backyard or Living Room
Would you believe that I’ve never been camping in a tent?I really want to go, but I don’t have experience so I’d need to go with someone who could show me the ropes. It’s too hot in AZ right now anyways, so what better way to practice than camping in your backyard or living room? Perhaps you’re also new to camping (or maybe your dog is) so you want to get used to setting up your tent and sleeping in it. Or maybe you just wanna do something fun and different! Either way, construct a tent at your house and have a comfortable night of camping with your dog. Be sure to give them lots of treats for positive reinforcement in case they are weary of the tent. Let the adventure come to you, and be sure to take some fun photos!
Cook Hot Dogs Over a Bonfire
Light up a bonfire or fire pit in your backyard and cook up some hot dogs (or anything else pup friendly) to share with your furry friend. You can also make some s’mores for yourself and share marshmallows with your dog! Spending time around a bonfire could be a fun evening activity any time of the year. Invite your friends and their dogs over for this super fun adventure 🙂
Take Your Dog Swimming
Have a pool, lake or ocean nearby? Take your dog for a swim! If this is something you already do, find a new body of water nearby that you’ve never been to before. Your dog will appreciate this adventure during the hot summer months, that’s for sure. Be sure to use these tips to keep your pup safe around water.
Check Out a New Dog-Friendly Restaurant
There are lots of dog-friendly restaurants here in Arizona. I have a few favorites, and there are still several that Wynston and I need to visit. Hit up good ol’ Google to see what’s in your area, and take your dog on a special date! One of my personal favorite dog-friendly restaurants here is The Ginger Monkey. Can’t beat their menu for dogs!
Want to go seek adventure with your dog but you’re on a budget or time constraint? Hopefully something that I listed above speaks to you and you can create some new memories with your dog 🙂
What are some ideas you have for this list? I’d love to add them!
Kinley Westie says
A dog-friendly restaurant sounds like a pawsome idea!
speedyrabbit says
I haven’t been Camping for years but we are planing Speedy’s first trip at the end of next week if the weather holds….I’m a fair weather Camper I’m afraid….I just don’t think it fun in the rain!But last year I started getting all the gear together to go camping but we had a wet summer so never went. I’ve just finished getting the last few bits together so we are all set to go….So I’m praying for dry weather next Friday so we can try a 2 night camping trip,xx Rachel and Speedy