Six of the Best Activities to do with your Pet, Besides Walking

It’s no secret that quality time with our pets is beneficial for both us and our animals. In fact, many studies exist discussing the benefits of owning a pet and how this quality time can improve mental and physical health for both people and their pets. However, we also know that sometimes it can be difficult to identify what ways we can spend time with our dogs or cats besides the obvious. Need some ideas on activities besides walking to do with your pet? Read below for a few of our favorite ways to sneak in some extra quality time with your pup or kitten!

Exercise

Okay, so we couldn’t totally ignore exercise in this list. While we all know about our pups (and even some cats) needs for their daily outside walks, there’s many ways to sneak in exercise for you and you pet besides walking. Hiking, swimming, running, or playing at the dog park are all great ways to get in some extra quality time with your pet!

Animal Play Dates

Many websites, such as meetup.com and eventbrite.com, are devoted to building social connections have specific events tailored to pet owners. They will help organize dog owner meet ups at parks, restaurants with pet friendly patios, or you can utilize the network you already have and schedule a play date with a family member or friend who also has a dog. Your dog will get quality time with you and one extra chance to play with other pups! It’s a win for everyone!

Taking A Ride

Many cats and dogs love just being with their owner, regardless of where they’re going or what they’re doing. Something about being in the car, though, for many pets is a fun adventure and is another way that they can spend time with you. Simply by taking a drive, even if it’s only for 20 minutes, can be a fun way to bond with your pet.

Go to a Pet Friendly Restaurant, Coffee Shop, or Brewery

In the last few years, there has been a significant increase in the number of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops with pet friendly patios and outside seating areas. This can be a fun way for you and your pet to do something different and still get that much needed quality time. A great bonus? Many places have specific pet menus or special treats when you bring your pup with you!

Take a Weekend Getaway

Traveling with your pet can be a fun way for you both to see somewhere new and explore some new activities. You don’t have to travel far either! Many people will take their pets camping, for a multi-day hike, or for a short getaway in their own state. However far you choose to go, traveling with your pet can be a fun and unique way to spend quality time together!

Relaxing

This one may be obvious, right? I mean, how many pet owners don’t spend down time relaxing and cuddling with their cat or dog? However, this is often one of the best and easiest ways to get quality time with our pets. By making time to pay attention to our cats and dogs, show them our love by pets or cuddling, and spending time directing our attention to them, we can remind our pets how important they are.

What are your favorite ways to spend time with your pets? Tell us below in the comment section! We’d love to hear what you have to say.