Activities For Dogs In New Mexico On Cold Days

The toughest part about enjoying holiday lights is finding ones that are actually worth going and seeing. Plenty of neighborhoods decorate their houses, but they are often a bit sporadic. If you're looking for something more thorough, start by doing an online search for holiday light tours or neighborhoods nearby that all participate. Be careful, however, as many neighborhoods charter buses that aren't dog-friendly, and won't just let you walk through either. The same goes for the botanical gardens. They have awesome lights but for whatever reason, they don't want dogs inside. That's why our best suggestions are to check out the Elephant Butte Luminaria Beachwalk, which is gorgeous to begin with - even more so in the evening glow - and even includes a boat parade, and The Plaza in Santa Fe, which is beautifully decorated from head to toe for the holidays. Figure out which evenings the events are being held and double check to ensure dog-friendliness.

Once an appropriate day comes, make sure you've got the right clothes to bundle up in for a few hours outdoors. If you dog isn't winterized (AKA has a hefty coat), consider getting them one to make sure they're warm and comfortable during your adventure. Since you may not be allowed inside to get one, you can always make yourself a hot tea or hot chocolate at home and pack it in a container that will retain the heat until you arrive at your destination. Otherwise, wrap yourselves up, grab your supplies and hit the road. Make sure once you do reach your destination that you provide a bathroom break so both you don't have to worry about any potential messes and can enjoy the holiday time more thoroughly. We also suggest bringing a camera, as you may find some cool spots to take pictures. More than all else, have fun!

The first step of the process is finding a costume. Consider whether you want to just dress your dog up, dress up as well, or come up with an idea that will pair you two in something complementary. If you have a solid idea, you can always search online or take your dog to different pet stores to see what they have in stock. If not, you can always use that shopping time as inspiration and see what comes to you. Taking them to a store to look will give you both something to do, get your creative juices flowing, and will give you something new to look for outside of the standard toys, chewies, and food. If you decide to make one yourself, you'll need them nearby to measure and fit, and in the process, will help you spend good time together.

Once you have a costume made or purchased, do some research about what you can do with your dog once they're dressed up. New Mexico has numerous doggy costume contests that you can enter them in, from Howl & Growl to photo contests. Some bars will hold much of the same, so don't hesitate to think a bit unconventional. Some places even have dog-friendly trick-or-treating that will supply them with dog-appropriate treats instead of candy! Almost all options will ensure at least some exercise, socializing, and fun for all.

The first step in the process is finding a park that meets multiple criteria. First, it has to be close and accessible enough that cold or inclement weather won't leave you stranded or driving for hours on end. Second, it will have to be dog-friendly. There are certainly quite a few great spots that are, like Rinconada Canyon Trail, San Vincente Trail and the trails of Rockhound State Park, but there are plenty more that aren't, so make sure you do your research beforehand and learn the rules and regulations that surround them.

Third, choose your trail depending on the local weather. It may not be snowy by you, but if you plan a hike somewhere higher that received precipitation, you'll want to dress appropriately and choose a trail without too much quick elevation change in case it gets slippery to ensure your and your dog's overall safety. Fourth, sheerly for the sake of entertainment, pick a park that will benefit from the cold weather. Parks with trees, large snowy valleys or snow-capped peaks make for the best viewing, compared to a flat open field and a field scattered rocks. Make sure there is a station you can stop at for a map or have one ready digitally in case the weather gets extreme.

Next, get together your supplies. Make sure to bring some water and snacks if necessary, depending on the length of your hike. A backpack for adding or subtracting layers can be super helpful, especially since the weather can easily change on longer hikes. While you don't have to worry about getting burned by the sun as much, you will have to worry about overheating and potentially sweating, which can be just as dangerous, or not having enough clothing to keep you warm and comfortable. Consider the weather for that day as well as the length and intensity of the hike. Once you've got everything in line, grab your supplies and your dog and hit the road. Then have fun hiking!