Your Complete Checklist for Doggie Adventures in the Treasure Valley
Summer Tips
Boise is one of the most dog-friendly towns in the Pacific Northwest! But, the high desert heat can pose some problems for our four-legged friends.
Here are some tips on keeping your pup safe during the summer months:
Bring Plenty of Water
This may be obvious, but water is essential in the hot summer months. Pet’s overheating is a real possibility! Pack extra water and look for the signs of dehydration, including heavy panting, dry or red gums, thick drool, vomiting, wobbly legs or a swollen tongue!
Never Leave Your Pet in a Car
Most pets are fans of the car, but during the summer, it is extremely dangerous. On average, a car is about 19 degrees hotter on the inside than the temperature outside the vehicle.
Don’t Push Your Pup
Remember, it’s hot outside! If it’s too hot for you to do strenuous exercise, then it’s too hot for your pup. Try to avoid strenuous exercise when it gets to be 80 degrees or hotter! Plan your walks and hikes in the early hours and late afternoon when it is cooler outside.
Avoid the Blacktop
Beware, asphalt and other dark surfaces can burn your four-pawed friends! Asphalt can be 50 degrees hotter than the temperature outside. You should avoid hot asphalt and aim for the grass!
Tricks
Have Your Pup Pack Water
Not enough hands available on your hike? Let your pup pack its own water. Depending on your dog’s size, they can carry their own treats and water packs that fit your dog!
Protect the Paws
To avoid your dog’s paws burning on the hot asphalt, protect their pads with booties, wax or even an old pair of socks.
Apply Sunscreen
Dogs can get sunburnt too! Pack dog-friendly sunscreen to protect your pup, especially their noses! Molly’s Pet Boutique in downtown Boise provides sunscreen options for your pets!
Look for Dedicated Dog-Spots
Plan ahead and go to restaurants and stores that have specific safe and shaded spots for your dog. Many local locations have our four-legged friends in mind. Albertsons provides “DogSpots,” a safe replacement for hot cars. DogSpots are air-conditioned kennels that you can monitor from your phone while you are shopping and available at two flagship locations - Broadway and Albertsons Market Street.
Trips
Hit the River
Take your dog to the river along the GreenBelt to cool off. Many dogs love water, but even if your pup isn’t a fan of the water, the temperature drops near the river’s edge. The Boise River is a perfect way for your and your pup to cool down and get outside. Don’t forget your Life-Jacket and look out for strong currents!
Dog-Friendly Brewery
The Treasure Valley has many dog-friendly breweries and pubs that will get you out of the house but not into the heat. Payette Brewing, The Handlebar Boise, and Hops & Bottles provide an indoor, air-conditioned space for you and your dog (we have over 80 breweries in Idaho and most that we know of are pup-friendly!).
Catch a Flick at the Drive-In
After the sun goes down, you can head out to Parma to catch a good, old-fashioned drive-in movie at the Parma Motor-Vu Drive-In Theatre. It is a fun way for you and your pup to enjoy the cool summer evenings.
Wag-Along Wednesdays with the Boise Hawks
Every Boise Hawks home game that lands on a Wednesday is dog-friendly. Starting at 7:00 PM at Memorial Stadium, the park is filled with kiddie pools and water bowls ready to keep your pooch cool in the summer heat.
We love that the dogs of the Treasure Valley are always out and about, ready to play. Make sure when you’re ready to hit the outdoors with your pup you’re prepared to keep them safe and healthy. Here’s to a summer of fun with our furry pals alongside!
We’d love to hear your tips for enjoying summer with your dog. Send us an email at iloveboise@totallyboise.com with any tips, tricks, and tips we can share.