Activities For Dogs In Nebraska On Hot Days

Out of all the things on our list, this one will take the most preparation. First, you'll want to make sure you have a dog who can handle the excitement. They'll need to be well-behaved and good with new environments. You can test them yourself with other activities like standard boating or taking them near louder local areas to make sure they can handle the noise and vehicle movement without being too nervous or spooked. Once you've got that part down you can start planning your trip.

Once you're sure your dog can handle the ride, you'll want to call Bryson's to get a comprehensive guide to what's available for tours. It generally costs less to have more people, so if possible, fill it up with people you know so you have more eyes on your dog and they'll be surrounded by more familiar faces. Of course, this isn't always possible, so discuss with Bryson's your dog's size, weight and temperament so they can best advise you on what kind of tour you can take or where they can most comfortably fit you. They offer standard 1-hour tours but if you need some extra time and space to cool off, there is also a 3-hour package that includes an area for barbecuing, horseshoes, beach volleyball, and swimming in case you want to extend your stay or make a day of it with friends (and their dogs too!). During this stage you should also decide whether or not you want to get dog-specific ear muffs so you can have them shipped or picked up by the time your ride day arrives.

Once you've got all the details worked out and everything booked, you're ready to hit the water. Grab your supplies and head on over to check in. Once you've done so, make sure you give your dog a bathroom break beforehand for the comfort and safety of everyone, including your dog. Talk to staff about the best seating locations and methods for keeping your dog safely inside the boat, then, if possible, introduce them to any other staff or passengers they may not know to increase their comfort levels (dog treats can be good for this). Once you're all settled in, it's time for your tour! Once you've received all instructions, don your ear muffs (and put your dog's on if you decided to get some or ask for an extra pair of human ones to see if they'll stay on comfortably). Then, hold on!

There really aren't many steps to this one. Pack your basic supplies based on what you intend to all do there. Consider whether you'll just be there for a wade-in with your pooch, plan to eat a bit on-site or explore the large area around the lake. Although the park is fenced and off-leash, it might be best to bring a leash anyway if you plan to take the few trails that line the park, as we've been told there are spots of poison ivy your dog may not notice but may still transfer to you if you're not careful. Otherwise towels and swimsuits are also recommended if you plan on splashing around in any capacity, as well as sunscreen. And, of course, dog bags are also required to help maintain the cleanliness of the park. Once you've got everything packed, hit the road!

The park is located just off of West Husker Highway (34) and S Blaine St and should be pretty easy to find. There is only one main entrance and several places to park. Once you find it, there's little more to do than enter and have fun! Feel free to check out the beach, the picnic areas and the trails that meander through. Just make sure you put on enough sunscreen beforehand if you plan to spend a decent amount of time out of the shade (and maybe even if you do). Keep a watchful eye on your dog to ensure they are safe at all times.

As with any touring experience, it's always best to call ahead and let them know you plan on bringing your dog, just in case there is any additional planning to be done on either side. When you call, you should be able to secure your tickets or at least procure all necessary information prior to your trip. It shouldn't take much to get this all aligned, so once you've done so, you just need to grab your dog, dog bags, leash, and go!

Once you arrive, check in and make sure everything with your ticket is in order, then you'll likely have to wait until the tour departure time. There are a few nice spots outside to explore in the meantime, should you feel so inclined. Once the tour starts, you'll head down into the mines for a guided tour of their historical and geological importance (and yes, they should be a bit cooler than the air at the surface). Keep your pet close and praise them for exploration well done. Once you enjoy the tour, you can ask the staff about areas for you and your canine companion to check out nearby, such as the shaded hikes and paths and the North Loop River just in case there's an extra spot you can snatch some cool shade or better, yet, some cool water.