Activities For Dogs In Massachusetts On Rainy Days
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Introduction
When the rain comes in Massachusetts, it can stay for days or even a month. Even though it's tempting to never leave your house on those dreary days, you still have to find a way to make sure you and your pooch get enough exercise and stimulation to stave off cabin fever. Luckily the state is home to many intrepid dog lovers who have discovered many activities for dogs in Massachusetts on rainy days. You won't have to look far to create any kind of fun and adventure, and you may discover a new hobby in the process.
Indoor Dog Park
Popular
0 Votes
Rainy Day
Moderate
Easy
30 min
Items needed
Membership
Activity description
Massachusetts is home to some wild weather, winter and summer. It was only a matter of time before the dog lovers in this state came up with an indoor facility for their dogs to romp and play in while the rain went on for days and days. Now there are several indoor play places where your dog can run around with fellow canines, tire themselves out, and work on their social skills in the process. These places are an affordable way to cure the rainy day blues, meet up with friends, and stay dry while still getting exercise.
Step
1
Research indoor parks
Take a little time to research indoor doggy playgrounds near you. There are several to choose from in Boston, but many other areas are beginning to expand doggie daycare centers into playgrounds. Research the fees and any important needs before you go. Be sure to have a copy of your dog's recent vaccinations and please make sure they play well with other dogs in a confined area. Sometimes the dynamics of indoor play vs outdoor play can change.
Step
2
Make a reservation
Call the place to make a reservation for a time slot. Some of these indoor playgrounds have playgroups your dog can join based on activity level and size or breed. You don't want to show up to the small dog playgroup with your Great Dane puppy. The staff can help you choose the right time to come in to ensure your dog has the most fun.
Step
3
Get ready to romp
When you arrive, make sure you keep your dog on a leash until you get to the play area. Check-in and get situated, and then let your puppy off the leash. These places often have lots of obstacles and toys for the dogs to play and romp with. Sit back and enjoy the antics as your dog makes new friends and tired themselves out with hilarious acrobatics. 30 minutes is all you need before your dog is ready to head back into the rain and lay in bed for the rest of the day.
Training Club
Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Moderate
Normal
15 - 30 min
Items needed
Treats
Clicker
Activity description
Massachusetts has a history of training programs and clubs that work with owners and dogs to create well-mannered companions. Trainers and dog lovers from all over join up with these clubs to teach their dogs basic obedience and beyond. If they allowed the weather to keep them from practicing, it would take forever to finish any training, so many of these clubs have both indoor and outdoor areas where they practice their skills and hold classes for newcomers. Obedience is important to work on no matter the weather, but attending these classes is a fantastic activity for dogs in Massachusetts on rainy days.
Step
1
Find your club
Training clubs are more like communities to join than just signing up for a class at a local pet store. Many of them, like the Charles River Dog Training Club, have been around for decades and heir members hemp organize events such as potlucks, end of season events, and classes for advanced training. Search for a club near you and talk with a few of the members to see if it's the right fit for you.
Step
2
Sign up
Look through their menu of classes and sign up for one that matches your dog's obedience ability. Dog training clubs often have many intermediate and advanced offerings beyond just simple "sit, stay, and come." Some of the classes focus on specific skills while others are designed to take you to the next level. Decide on a goal for your dog's obedience and pick a class that will help you get there.
Step
3
Join in
Once you become a member of the training club, you will always have something fun and interesting to do with your dog, even when it's raining. There are many opportunities in Massachusetts to train obedience, even in bad weather, and if you join the fun and participate in the club events, you may find yourself in an obedience competition on the next rainy day.
Walkin' in the Rain
Popular
0 Votes
Rainy Day
Free
Easy
30 min
Items needed
Dog Raincoat
Umbrella
Dog galoshes
Activity description
Massachusetts is known for their tough and hardy residents. From lobster fisherman to farmers to drivers who navigate Boston's twisted and confusing roadways every day, a little rain isn't likely to stop these dog owners from taking a walk. As long as it's not a Nor'easter or hurricane, you're likely to see these tough dogs and their owners braving almost any weather. That's why walking in the rain is one of the most common activities for dogs in Massachusetts on rainy days. Grab your raincoat (for you and the dog), umbrella, and L.L. Bean rainboots, and get ready for a nice stroll in the summer rain.
Step
1
Gear up
Walking in the rain won't be enjoyable for long if you don't have the right gear, no matter how hot and muggy it's been. Make sure you have a good, water repellent raincoat, comfortable rain boots, and an umbrella for your self. Your dog will be happier with a raincoat and rain boots for these wet strolls as well. Make sure you have all your gear on hand before you head out.
Step
2
Pick your route
There are a few things to think about while walking your dog in the rain, and the first is finding a safe place to be. If you live in a rural area of Eastern Massachusetts and your walking routes are on roads with no shoulder, try to find a path or dirt road with little traffic. In the rain, it will be harder for cars to see you and you want to make sure you're safe. These same precautions apply in cities like Boston. Choose a route where you are separated from traffic and safe in all weather.
Step
3
Enjoy your stroll
Rain has a way of slowing things down and making everything stand still. This is rare in our busy lives, so take time to enjoy your stroll. Breathe in the smell of summer rain on pavement, the fragrance of trees and flowers, and the way a grey sky makes the green grass so vibrant. If you watch your dog, there is a good chance they are noticing these things too,
More Fun Ideas...
Take the Stairs
If you live in a city or an apartment building in Massachusetts and you need something dry to entertain and exercise both you and your dog, why not take the stairs? Depending on how many stories your apartment has, you could get a great workout just walking up and down the stairs.
Indoor Hide and Seek
Play hide and seek with your dog. Hide in another room and then call them to find you. Your dog will have to use all their senses to see where you are, and will expend energy rushing around trying to find you.
Conclusion
If you live in Massachusetts and own a dog, you're going to have to contend with rainy days all year long. It's important to figure out a few activities you can do with your dog on rainy days to make sure you both don't get too stir crazy or bored. Whether your dog is active and needs to run around for hours or is happy with a quick walk around the block, the rain can alter your normal routine. When you plan ahead and prepare a few alternative activities, you and your dog won't mind the rain at all.