Your Dog’s the Best Travel Companion for Staying in Shape

Daniel Sherwin of DadSolo.com is back to tell us why travelling with your dog can be the key to staying in shape while on vacation!

A Match Made in Heaven

You like to run, and they like run. You like to swim, and they like to swim. You like to cycle, and
they like to … well, run alongside your bike. It’s a match made in heaven, and there’s no reason
you should leave your four-legged friend at home while you have all the fun on vacation.
Not only will they be an excellent travel companion, but also their boundless energy will ensure
you stick to your fitness routine no matter how many margaritas you had the night before. Here
are some fun activities to do together on the road, as well as a few special places to take your
good boy if they deserve it. (They do.)

Take Your Run

Jogging in the early hours has become a regular part of your routine, and your dog always does
their best to keep up, so there’s no reason to stop now. In fact, this could be the best way to
take in the local scenery, for both of you. As an added extra, your pooch will burn off some
excess energy, which is great if you’re planning to travel further on by car.

Hit the Trails

Now’s the time for a proper hike, and your dog will enjoy it more than you. They’ll feel alive and
refreshed by the natural scents of the woods, which appeal to the wolf within. You may even
find your friend to be less high-strung than before, says a writer at Backpacker magazine, as the
outdoors are wonderful therapy for animals as well as humans. If needed, bring along a
retractable leash; you can set the leash to a preferred length, which is ideal in wide, open
spaces.

Go for a Swim

Some dogs love the beach. Try to find one where there’s plenty of room to run around and go
for a doggy paddle so you can get the most out of your time in the sun. Speaking of that, it
would be wise to pack a tent or umbrella that provides a bit of shade in case your pup needs a
break from the heat.

Play Fetch

Bring along a Frisbee. They’re small, light and easy to pack. Plus, your dog can get his air game
on much better than with a boring old stick. If they seem a bit flummoxed by the new toy, just
smear a bit of peanut butter around the edges for encouragement, chimes in the Dogington
Post.

Try Cycling

The trouble of bringing your bike along is worth it as cycling shows you and your dog a much
greater expanse of the countryside than walking or running. Smaller breeds can sit in the basket
while you do the pedalling, while more athletic canines prefer to trot alongside, in which case
you may want to consider a bike leash made specifically for the purpose.

Curious About Vacationing with your Dog?

Want to book a pet-friendly vacation? Give our Destination Experts a call on 1-877-902-1616 or fill in a contact form to find out more info about our pet-friendly vacation rentals!