Menu

Download our Petland App today for information on your local Petland's Available Pets and Pet Supplies. All at the tips of your fingers!

Petland Logo
Login/Register

Please create a free account below, or login by clicking here.

Pet Store Banner Pet Store Banner

National Picnic Month: Planning the Paw-Fect Dog-Friendly Picnic

July 1, 2020

Get ready, folks, because we’re almost to July, and you know what that means—National Picnic Month! (As if we needed an excuse to enjoy the outdoors, right?)

Gardens are lush with fruits and veggies, begging to be eaten on a checkered cloth under the shade of a giant oak tree. Picnicking is an American pastime we can’t get enough of, even in today’s increasingly restaurant-friendly era. Because, let’s be honest: there is nothing more fun than going out to a picnic with friends, family, and of course, Fido (or Spot, or Buddy, or Lucy).

Before you head out on the green with your four-legged friend, though, keep reading. Here are some tips to have fun, be happy, and stay safe.

Keep Your Pup Leashed

This tip is essential for your dog’s safety and well-being, as well as your peace of mind. Nothing ruins a fantastic picnic quite like chasing your dog as they chase a squirrel! 

So, even if your dog is incredibly well-behaved, it’s crucial to keep them harnessed or leashed up all day long. This act can prevent your dog from running off towards the nearest human, another dog, or any park critters around (some of which could be dangerous or even have rabies). 

Of course, in case your dog does manage to sneak out of its collar, it’s also important to have them chipped and with a current ID tag that includes your phone number.

Bring Activities for Entertainment

Don’t let your pup go bored! Bring a form of entertainment to keep them occupied during the meal.

Perhaps you can bring a frisbee or tennis ball so that you can get in on the action, too.

If you’re planning to have a more low-key day for yourself or not in the mood for exercise, bring something for them to gnaw on instead, like a peanut butter-filled KONG toy or a rawhide chew. Planning a picnic with dogs means planning for their amusement, too.

Food for You, Food for Fido

Unless you want to spend the entire day saying, “Quit begging,” bring your dog something to eat.

You can make homemade dog treats ahead of time, or at the very least, bring a bowl with a portion of their regular dog food. Consider something refreshing, too, as a treat—like a small amount of watermelon. Another great option is dehydrated sweet potatoes, which hold up well at a picnic.

Additionally, keep the “human food” safely stored in dog-proof containers so there’s no risk of them sneaking a bite.

Another important tip for keeping your dog happy is to bring plenty of water for them to sip on, especially if you’re planning to play games. Bring a collapsible dog bowl for easy transportation. 

Enjoy National Picnic Month All Month Long

The sun is out, the watermelon is ripe, and you’re ready to enjoy the great outdoors with your best friend (we mean the dog). 

National Picnic Month is the perfect excuse to do just that, and by using these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy yourself beyond the month of July. Staying safe is as essential as having fun, and our guidelines can help accomplish that.

Click here to check out some of our top-selling products, many of which you can bring along with you. From long-lasting and durable KONG toys to the perfect mid-day snack (hello, GREENIES®), you and your dog will have the best day ever, guaranteed!

Related Articles

View All Articles

  • Easy Sustainable Enrichment Ideas

    ,

    Easy Sustainable Enrichment Ideas

    Shoppers have become acutely aware of the brands they choose to support. Millennials have been the most outspoken generation to pride themselves in smart choices in brand loyalty a...

    Read This Blog

  • Fall Dog Essentials

    ,

    Fall Dog Essentials

    After a year of being stuck inside there’s no better time to leash up your pup and get moving. With cooler weather approaching outside is a given but depending on your area and a...

    Read This Blog

  • Recipes for Layering Stuffable Toys

    ,

    Recipes for Layering Stuffable Toys

    There are so many ways to entertain your pup. With work-from-home becoming a new option for many Americans, there are tons of perks – one of which is being able to snuggle with y...

    Read This Blog

  • Tips for City-based Dog Parents

    ,

    Tips for City-based Dog Parents

    Yes, having a yard is always the ideal for a dog owner. However, sometimes because of work goals, financial components, or that you simply love the hustle and bustle,  you might b...

    Read This Blog

  • The Surprising Ways Our Pups Keep Us Happy and Grounded

    The Surprising Ways Our Pups Keep Us Happy and Grounded

    Breaking down Eckhart Tolle’s theory about dogs (and cats) – guardians of being In 2020, many people took to shelters across the United States to get a furry addition to th...

    Read This Blog

  • Tips for Beating Flea and Tick Season

    Tips for Beating Flea and Tick Season

    Depending on where you live, the high season for parasites can vary but the general rule is that warm weather yields increased numbers of both fleas and ticks. Known for their pote...

    Read This Blog

  • Essentials to Leave for Any Dog-Sitter

    Essentials to Leave for Any Dog-Sitter

    So, you’re on your way to a sunny vacation destination – finally! A new level of excitement about going on an adventure after months inside is something really special. The big...

    Read This Blog

  • Dog Toys Matched to Each Astrological Zodiac Sign

    Dog Toys Matched to Each Astrological Zodiac Sign

    It feels like the stars align when you finally get to take your dog home and you probably picked up every adorable toy you could find in the store when you first got them. After a ...

    Read This Blog

  • 5 Fun Ways to Celebrate Your Pup’s Birthday

    5 Fun Ways to Celebrate Your Pup’s Birthday

    Our pets are a constant source of joy and amusement in our daily lives so it’s only fitting that on their special day we aim to go above and beyond! Whether you’re a dog parent...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Pet Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

    Like all insurance, the general idea is that you never want to have to use it, but if you do, it’s there. The same stands for pet insurance. Pet insurance can be a polarizing top...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Canine Careers

    Have Your Dog Work from Home & if you’re thinking “Dog With a Blog” from Disney Channel, that’s not exactly what we mean Dogs were originally domesticated and bred to h...

    Read This Blog

  • Ways to Keep Your Pup Cool All Summer

    Ways to Keep Your Pup Cool All Summer

    Depending on where you live, summer is just around the corner or it’s already begun. Soaking up some vitamin D is much needed for all of us – including your pet! Getting outdoo...

    Read This Blog

Help Need Help?