Enjoying Summer with Your Dog: Tips and Fun Ideas in Ottawa, Canada

As the warm summer months approach, spending time outdoors with your furry friend becomes even more enticing. Whether you’re planning to hit the beach, explore the parks, or simply enjoy a relaxing day in your backyard, it’s important to consider your dog’s safety and well-being in the heat. Here’s a guide to making the most of summer with your dog complete with safety tips and fun activities, including some of the best dog-friendly beaches and spots for puppy ice cream.

Safety Tips for Summer

1. Heat Risks:

• Hydration is Key: Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water. Carry a portable water bowl during walks and outdoor activities.
• Avoid Peak Heat Hours: Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the midday heat. Hot pavement can burn their paws, so check the ground with your hand before letting them walk on it.
• Shade and Rest: Make sure your dog has a shady spot to rest in during outdoor activities. Bring an umbrella or canopy if shade is scarce.

2. Water Safety:

• Supervised Swimming: Never leave your dog unattended near water. Even strong swimmers can get tired or caught in currents.
• Life Jackets: Consider a doggy life jacket, especially for breeds that are not natural swimmers or if you’re on a boat.
• Exercise drinking: Some dogs enjoy the water so much that they can overdo it with water. Keep an eye on them and prevent overconsumption. 
• Rinse Off: After swimming, rinse your dog with fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, or algae which can irritate their skin.

Fun Summer Activities

1. Beach Adventures: Ottawa boasts several dog-friendly beaches where your canine companion can enjoy the sand and water. Popular spots include:

• Beryl Gaffney Park - 3889 Rideau Valley Dr. Nepean K4M 1A5

• Brewer Park - 210 Hopewell Ave., Ottawa K1S 2Z5

• David Bartlett Park - 5201 McLean Crescent, Manotick K4M 1G2

• Constance Bay Beach - Lane St., Ottawa K0A 3M0

• Bilberry Trail - park at the end of Bilberry and take the path straight north to a small pebble beach. 

2. Park Visits:

• Ottawa is blessed with so many beautiful parks. I’ll sometimes pull up a Google satellite map and pick a new park to explore! These are great Sniffari’s that will surely tire out Finlay.
• Bruce Pit: This large, off-leash dog park offers trails, open fields, and a small pond where dogs can cool off.
• Conroy Pit: Another great off-leash area with trails and open spaces for your dog to explore.
• Heritage Dog Park: On Olreans Boulevard and is Finlay’s favourite!

3. Ice Cream Treats:

Summer isn’t complete without ice cream! Luckily, Ottawa has several places offering dog-friendly ice cream:

• The Merry Dairy: Located on Fairmont Avenue, this spot offers dairy-free options suitable for dogs.
• Barkin’ Good Dog Bakery: This bakery specializes in dog-friendly treats, including ice cream, and can be found at local farmers’ markets and event.

     4.  Markets & Events

• Easy Breezy will be at the Ottawa Pet Expo this Saturday & Sunday (June 8 & 9th) along with Pet Intel. Stop by for Ask the Expert where you get a free 10 minute consult! Lots of amazing vendors and fun things for you and your dog to do!
• The Original Navan Market - The last Sunday of every month, Easy Breezy & Dogtopia will be setup on the grass facing the back of the arena! Stop by for snuffle mats, tug toys and enrichment books!

Additional Tips for a Fun Summer

• Travel Smart: If you’re traveling by car, never leave your dog in a hot car. Temperatures can rise rapidly and become dangerous.
• Sun Protection: Dogs can get sunburned, especially those with short or light-colored fur. Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas.
• Cooling vest: Cooling vest (click here) and bandanas are good for the pooches that overheat easily. Keep them cool like a cucumber.
• Check for Ticks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your dog for ticks and other pests. Use preventive treatments recommended by your vet.

By following these tips and exploring the fun activities Ottawa has to offer, you and your dog can have a safe and enjoyable summer. Remember, a happy dog is a healthy dog, so keep their needs in mind as you embark on your summer adventures together!