Activities For Romantic Dogs

Not every hike is the same. Some, you need to train for due to high elevations. Others, you can easily do as a beginner with little experience. Think of what is important for you as for how you want to spend the day. What's available in your area, and how far are you willing to drive to get a good hike in? Are you looking for a secluded area, or a hike where you plenty of people will be around? Think of length as well. Don't overdo it on your first few hikes, aim for something no more than 6-8 miles long total.

Now that you know where you're going, it's time to pack. Take plenty of water and trail mix, granola bars or dehydrated berries for easy energy while on the trail. Remember you'll want something more substantial for lunch, so pack things like salad, sandwiches, and fresh fruit. Bring along healthy treats for your pup, and maybe a small portion of food since they will be expending energy, too. Also, don't forget essentials, like sunscreen, bug spray, and a blanket to lay down on.

Now that you have everything, it's hiking time! Remember to listen to your body and take breaks as needed. Break times are good trail mix times. Also, drink plenty of water and make sure that your trekking companion does, too. Your body can get very dehydrated on a hike, because of the calorie burning you're putting it through. Remember, this is exercise! Refer back to the map as needed, there's usually a map at the start of every trail (trail head). If not, there should be a map online that you can screenshot before heading deep into the woods where you may not get service. Be aware of your dog's energy level, and head back if they begin to lag.

First thing's first: hotel or B&B? A hotel would be about glamour and style, so it would be pricey, but this is kind of the whole basis of the trip: stay for a short period of time, and really just kind of nest in your suite. It's a getaway from the world and even your home, so you don't need to splurge doing other activities. Staying in helps to offset costs.Now, if B&B is more your scene, that means you're looking to spend a little less, and aren't interested in the sleek, modern, glam ways of a hotel. You want comfort charm and history. Either way, research the dog-friendly aspects of the destination as well.

Once you decide on a hotel or B&B, it's time to weigh options. Which place has the most bang for the buck? Look for things like free breakfast, free wi-fi, free parking, and a pool. If it's a B&B, look for the extra charm, like history of the place, and a breakfast menu you can't find in hotels, like biscuits and gravy, or potato hash. Find out the room size; you and your dog will want plenty of room to stretch out and relax.

Once you're at the place, it's time to relax and unwind! Let yout dog out of the crate, test out how cozy the bed is, and open up any snacks the staff may have left behind to welcome you with (check to see if it's free first). Call downstairs with any questions, or a room service order, and make sure you unpack a little. Just enough to make it feel like home for the next day or two.

Think about the wine that you enjoy that is local to you. Maybe you live near some vineyards, or you're a few hours away from 2 to 3 vineyards you wouldn't mind looking into? Once you have a list of places to look into, it's time to start making some calls for information. Ask for things like tour times and days, and entrance fees. Finally, remember to ask if they're dog-friendly!

Once you have all of your information ready, and find a few dog-friendly options, it's time to pick a place and set up a tour. Many vineyards are open and allow people to just show up and join a big tour, during touring hours. However, some require you to set up an appointment, of sorts. Remember, weekdays they tend to be closed, and it is busy on weekends. Aim for brunch, lunch, or even a little later.

Now it's time to enjoy yourself with the wine tasting! Eat beforehand, so you're not too much of a lightweight, but depending on where you go, you can also expect light snacks, like cheese boards and fruit. Always keep an eye on your dog, who should be with you at all times. Make sure the leash is on correctly and that the dog is by your side, or by your feet, away from direct sunlight. Offer your dog water as needed and beware of hints that they may be getting restless. Vineyards often offer a few things to explore on site. Wander around, allowing your companion to partake in exercise in between the wine tastings.