Activities For Dogs In Alaska On Hot Days

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Introduction

Summer has arrived in Alaska!  It is one of the most anticipated times of the year. It doesn't last for very long, so it's only natural to want to get out and enjoy the warmth with your pooch. Whether you live in the state or you are visiting on vacation with Fido in tow, you won't have to worry about finding things to do with your furry buddy because the state is very dog-friendly. There are adventures to be enjoyed in virtually every region. Just remember, if you are traveling with your canine companion to book pet-friendly lodging in advance, so you aren't scrambling to find a room for the night.

Soak Up Some History

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Hot Day
Cheap
Normal
8 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Collar
Bowl
Water
Dog treats
Activity description

Eklutna Historica Park is located in Chugiak which sits about 30 minutes from downtown Anchorage. The natural history and cultural heritage park is a dog-friendly site. Your dog will need to be licensed and up-to-date on the animal's rabies vaccination. While visiting, you are required to keep your dog on a leash at all times.  The park is open from May 15 through September 15. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own. At the site, you will have the opportunity to explore the oldest buildings in Alaska. There is also a new cemetery that features decorative doll house size structures. 

Step
1
Leash your dog and start exploring
Be sure to leash your dog before entering the park. The walkways throughout the park are gravel, so be sure you put on a comfortable pair of walking shoes. If you have a tiny dog, you might want to transport your pooch in an all-terrain stroller so the little critter doesn't get tired.
Step
2
Head for the church
Your first stop should be the Saint Nicholas Church which is believed to have been built as early as 1839. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There is also a newer Saint Nicholas Church that was built in 1962 by the residents of Eklutna.
Step
3
Visit the spirit houses
The cemetery at the historic site is a part of the Athabaskan Native Peoples. It features colorful spirit houses which are unique to the tribe's religion. The cemetery also boasts a variety of Orthodox crosses. Always be respectful with your dog when visiting the site.
Step
4
Walking the trail
As you and your pooch follow the trail you will have the opportunity to learn about the history, culture, and customs of the local Dena'ina Athabascans. You will also get to experience various Russian Orthodox traditions. Take the time to read all of the plaques and learn about the area's rich past.
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Round Trip Boat Tour

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Hot Day
Cheap
Normal
8 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Collar
Dog Treats
Activity description
From Memorial Day to Labor Day you will have the opportunity to take a round trip boat tour with your well-behaved pooch with Kachemak Bay Ferry touring company to Halibut Cove. Each day, the boat departs at noon and heads for Gull Island. As you cross Halibut Cove you will have the opportunity to view a variety of marine life. Once you reach the seaside city, you can depart to explore. You will be given two hours to visit the area before you head back. All well-behaved dogs are welcome for no additional charge. Just be sure to keep your pooch on a leash for the entire trip.
Step
1
Boarding the boat
Boarding the boat can be a scary experience for many dogs. Canines are more sensitive to the movement of the boat and the noise of the motors. However, with gentle coaxing, your pooch should adjust. You might want to give your dog a few treats to relax them as you prepare for departure.
Step
2
Sailing with your pooch
Once you head out to sea your dog may become excited. Offer words of encouragement and treats. It is not uncommon for a dog to try to bark if you start to see ample aquatic life but try to keep your dog quiet and calm for the comfort of all of the other guests on the vessel.
Step
3
Arrival at Halibut Cove
Once you arrive at Halibut Cove it is time to explore with your dog in tow. Don't worry because the site is very dog-friendly. If you and your canine buddy are famished then be sure to stop at the Saltry Restaurant for a bite to eat. The restaurant is dog-friendly so your pooch can even enjoy a snack or refreshment. Remember, you only have two hours to explore before you have to board the boat again to head back.
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Explore Your Pioneer Side

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Hot Day
Free
Easy
8 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Collar
Dog treats
Dog bowl
Activity description

The Pioneer Park in Fairbanks, Alaska is a dog-friendly location where you can explore a variety of attractions together. The site is home to historic buildings, museums, maritime exhibits, miniature golf, narrow gauge train, and mining. Although the park is open year-round, it is much better to explore the site on a hot day than in the dead of winter. You can explore the entire park with your pet, but dogs are not allowed in the food service areas. A couple of the buildings also will not allow dogs inside. Throughout the park, you will find doggy potty stations. During your entire visit, your dog must remain leashed. 

Step
1
Get ready to walk
Make sure your pooch is on a leash and get ready to start walking because the park sits on 44 acres. If you have a tiny dog, you might want to transport the pooch in an all-terrain pet stroller so that your canine doesn't become overly tired. Also, as you walk the park, be sure to stop frequently to let your dog hydrate.
Step
2
Dog mushing and other exhibits
As you explore, be sure to stop at the Yukon Quest Cabin where you can learn all about dog mushing and look over various exhibits. You should also take time to check out the Tanana Valley Railroad Engine. There is also the authentic Riverboat Nenana on display. It was the second largest wooden ship in the United States during its heyday.
Step
3
Train ride
The Crooked Creek & Whiskey Island Railroad departs every 15 minutes. The train runs only during the summer season. The tracks run around the park. There is an additional fee to ride the train. Many dogs might be afraid of the train and its noise but be sure to provide your pooch with ample reassurance so the dog calms down.
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More Fun Ideas...

Tongass National Forest

The Tongass National Forest is considered the largest national forest in the United States. It is a great place to explore with your pooch. There are ample opportunities for hiking,  wildlife viewing, camping, and fishing throughout the colossal park's vast expanse. The only requirements when exploring the park are that you keep your dog on a leash at all times and pick up any mess that the animal might leave behind. The park is open year round, but for extended hours during the summer months, from May to September.  The summer park hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm, and Sunday noon to 4 pm.

Orca Tours

Orca Eco Tours offer up-close whale watching and wildlife viewing excursions that depart from Juneau, Alaska. The tours can be completely personalized. Imagine getting to see Orcas up close with your beloved canine companion. Well, these once-in-a-lifetime trips make that dream possible. Your dog will be required to wear a life vest for the excursion. If your pooch has never donned a life vest before then you might want to get them used to wearing the flotation device prior to embarking on the tour.  The tour will take you and your pooch onto the waters of Auke Bay.

Conclusion

Everyone in the state of Alaska awaits summer with much anticipation. The hot, long days are a welcome respite from the cold dark days of winter. One of the best things about Alaska is that so many places are dog-friendly.  During the hot summer months, you can take your pooch with you on an adventure every weekend. Even the vast National parks, such as breathtaking Denali,  allow pets within their borders. In the bigger cities and towns, there is also an abundance of dog parks where your dog can run free and enjoy playing a game of ball with you.