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Staying close to home this summer? Check out hipcamp.com. They list an inspiring lineup of public and private campsites across the US where you can pitch a tent or rent a cabin with your dog along for the ride — just filter your search for "dogs allowed." Options run the gamut from ranches, vineyards, and farms to public parks and beyond. Craving a yurt, a rustic A-frame, a glamping escape, or bare-bones camping? Hipcamp's got you. Searchers can even earn a little cash helping them scout new venues; landowners willing to host campers can sign up too. (hipcamp.com)
Courtesy of prostock Studio/bigstock.com
Safely bring your pooch along for summer bike rides with the Bike Tow Leash attachment. Built to stop your dog from tipping or steering the bike, this gadget makes rides fun and secure — and it's a brilliant way to burn off excess energy. It clips quickly onto bikes, trikes, mobility scooters, and wheelchairs. ($150, biketowleash.com)
The floating, indestructible, featherlight Puller toy from Cool Tugs does it all, holding its shape through the roughest play. Off to the beach! (from $16, cooltugs.com)
Shield your car from a wet, muddy dog with a backseat liner from 4Knines! Easy to install and simple to clean, these excellent covers are made from weatherproof material with a non-slip backing. (from $60, 4knines.com)
The Dexas Dual Chambered Hydration Bottle splits into two compartments — one for kibble or treats, one for water — and comes with a collapsible bowl. The ideal companion for hikes or road trips! ($20, dexas.com or amazon.com)
What could beat more puppy kisses? Tons of amazing rescue organizations are constantly hunting for fosters. Groups like San Antonio Pets Alive in San Antonio, Texas pull at-risk dogs and puppies out of the overcrowded city shelter where they'd otherwise face euthanasia. Fosters are the crucial link that lets them save more dogs. If you've got room in your heart and home, fostering can be an incredible experience. Depending on the dog and the organization, you might need to drive them to a vet appointment or two (typically covered). Otherwise, you're simply supplying love, company, food, and a safe space. You might keep your foster dog for a couple weeks or a couple months, and some groups even let you choose the adopter.
Credit: Photoboyco/bigstock.com
P.L.A.Y.'s Scout & About Outdoor Dog Tent is built for rugged adventures with your dog. Made of tough outdoor fabric with breathable mesh sides, it's compact, collapsible, and a must-pack for camping trips. ($125, petplay.com)
If Marie Kondo-ing your home is on your summer to-do list, start with your linen closet — most shelters will gratefully accept old towels and blankets. Drop them off and spark joy for rescue dogs and their caretakers. Got little kids at home? Making bandanas for shelter dogs is a fun activity that helps pups in need find their forever homes.
Round up your friends and neighbors with sociable dogs and organize a pack walk or hike. Check out our "Weenie Mom Club" story.
Image courtesy of The Goldens Club
Next time you're at Starbucks, ask for a "puppuccino" (a portmanteau of "puppy" and "cappuccino"), and they'll hand your dog a small cup of whipped cream — free of charge. Just remember that Puppuccinos aren't on the official menu, so not every Starbucks location will offer them. Ask your barista — and be ready to snap an adorable pic of your dog savoring his special treat.
Originally featured in the award-winning Modern Dog magazine. Subscribe today!
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