Picnics are a great way to spend some time with Fido on the weekend - you can explore your local area together, get in some exercise and a healthy dose of vitamin D. Here’s a few things you can do to make sure your picnic goes off without a hitch:
1. Walk your dog before you sit to eat
Taking your pooch for a walk before you break out the snacks and sit down is a good way to make sure he’s tired and ready to relax, rather than straining at the leash and wanting to explore all those wonderful new smells that beckon.
2. Check for discarded bones and rubbish around your picnic area
Do a thorough search of the area immediately surrounding where you are sitting for any rubbish or bones. Dogs have a keen sense of smell and no hesitation at eating foods that can injure or make them sick (this is especially true of a picnic on the beach, where washed up poisonous or rancid fish will be sure to grab their attention.)
3. Safely tether your dog
Unless you are in an off leash space (and even then, if you’re not planning on constantly eyeballing your dog so they don’t wander off and get lost), then choose a spot near something you can tether your dog to. Make sure your dog can sit with you with enough slack on the leash to feel comfortable and be able to wander a little – or waist leashes are ideal for picnics, making yourself a handy tethering point.
4. Bring your dog’s usual food
While it may seem like a great idea to bring special picnic treats for your canine companion, dogs require food that is nutritionally designed for them. A change in food can also cause an upset stomach (and diarrhoea), so it’s best to stick to what they usually eat. If you want to make it extra special, perhaps bring along a bone – but be prepared to pick it up and take it with you!
5. Take plenty of water
All that walking and picnicking in the sun (and dog food), will make your pooch thirsty, so make sure you bring along a bowl and portable dish – many places do have water taps, but unless you know this for sure, it is best to bring your own supply.
6. Be sun smart
As well as slip, slop, slapping yourself, any pink areas on your dog’s skin (especially if they have patches around their nose) should be sun-screened as well, and pick a spot in the shade to help keep them cool – dog’s don’t sweat like we do, so can overheat on hot days.
Don't forget that you can receive a FREE picnic blanket with every purchase* of PAW products over $40 during December.
* When purchased at selected vets, pharmacies and pet stores.