Doggone Best Summer Ever!

1. Camping, but make it hip—and canine inclusive.

Sticking close to home this summer? Check out hipcamp.com. They list an inspiring range of public and private campsites across the US where you can go to pitch a tent or rent a cabin with your dog in tow—just use the search function to limit results to “dogs allowed.” Locations range from ranches and vineyards to farms, public parks, and more. Fancy a yurt, a rustic A-frame, a glamping experience, or basic camping? Hipcamp has you covered. Searchers can also earn a little income by helping it find new venues; landowners who are willing to host campers can sign up as well. (hipcamp.com)

photo prostock Studio/bigstock.com

2. Bike with your dog.

Safely take your pooch on summer bike rides with the Bike Tow Leash attachment. Designed to prevent your dog from tipping or steering your bike, this attachment allows for fun, safe rides with your dog, and is an excellent way to wear off excess energy. Quickly attaches to bikes, trikes, mobility scooters, and wheelchairs. ($150, biketowleash.com)

3. Swim, run, tug, jump.

The floating, super-durable, lightweight Puller toy from Cool Tugs does it all, holding its shape while standing up to vigorous play. To the beach! (from $16, cooltugs.com)

4. Don’t bring the beach home with you!

Protect your car from wet, dirty dog with a backseat liner from 4Knines! Easy to install and clean, these excellent covers are made from weather-proof material and have a non-slip backing. (from $60, 4knines.com)

5. Hydration and snacks on the go!

The Dexas Dual Chambered Hydration Bottle features two compartments—one for kibble or treats and another for water—and comes with a collapsible bowl. The perfect companion on hikes or road trips! ($20, dexas.com or amazon.com)

6. Foster a puppy or dog.

What could be better than more puppy kisses? There are many wonderful rescue organizations in continuous need of fosters. Groups like San Antonio Pets Alive in San Antonio, Texas pull dogs and puppies at risk of euthanasia from the crowded city shelter. Fosters are the vital link that allows them to save more dogs. If you have room in your heart and home, fostering can be a wonderful experience. Depending on the dog and the organization, you may have to provide transport to a vet appointment or two (costs are usually covered). Other than that, you’re simply providing love, company, food, and a safe space. You may have your foster dog for a couple weeks or a couple months, and some groups allow you to choose the adopter.

Photo Photoboyco/bigstock.com

7. Pup Tent.

P.L.A.Y.’s Scout & About Outdoor Dog Tent is built for rugged adventures with your dog. Made of durable, outdoor fabric and breathable mesh sides, it’s compact, collapsible, and a must for camping trips. ($125, petplay.com)

8. Spark joy.

If Marie Kondo-ing your home is on your summer to-do list, start in your linen cabinet—most shelters will gratefully accept old towels and blankets. Drop them off and spark some joy for rescue dogs and their carers. Have little kids at home? Making bandanas for shelter dogs is a fun activity that can help dogs in need find forever homes.

9. Find your pack.

Rally your friends and neighbours with sociable dogs and organize a pack walk or hike. Check out our “Weenie Mom Club” story.

Photo courtesy The Goldens Club

10. Puppuccino, anyone?

Next time you’re at Starbucks, ask for a “puppuccino” (that would be a portmanteau of “puppy” and “cappuccino”), and they’ll give your dog a small cup filled with whipped cream—for free. Remember that Puppuccinos are not on the official menu, so not every Starbucks location will necessarily offer them. Just ask your barista—and be ready to snap a cute pic of your dog enjoying his special treat.

This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Dog magazine. Subscribe today!