With kids back in school and the air getting crisper, it’s time to admit it – summer is coming to an end. Just because your vacation may be over, doesn’t mean you have to stop having fun with your dog! There are many fun fall-themed activities you can include your canine companion in 🍂
Hiking
Hiking is the perfect pet-inclusive activity. Dogs love getting out and about and searching for all the new smells, and it’s even becoming popular to take your cat on outdoor adventures! If you’re up for a little day trip, there are several Ontario Provincial Parks – Forks of the Credit, Mono, Earl Rowe – that your dog would love to explore. If you want something closer to Oakville, conservation areas such as Mount Nemo, Rattlesnake Point, and Crawford Lake offer beautiful trails and great views of the changing autumn leaves. Of course there is always the local Bronte Creek Provincial Park if you want the quiet of nature without leaving the city. Remember to keep dogs on leash unless in a designated leash-free area and to always pick up after your pets.
Festivals/Expos
The Canadian Pet Expo returns each September to the International Centre in Mississauga. Check out all kinds of different vendors, catch a show, and learn about different kinds of pets. As an added bonus, all types of pets are welcome, just be sure to bring a signed waiver with you! For more information, go to www.canadianpetexpo.ca
Indoor Activities
Sometimes instead of crisp fall breezes, we get damp autumn rain. If an indoor excursion is more your dog’s speed, pet stores, book stores, garden centres are great places to allow your dog to experience new things while staying dry! (Always give a call to any store that you aren’t sure is pet-friendly.)
Apple picking
The quintessential fall activity – fun for the whole family and a great way to get outdoors while picking a healthy snack! Pack up the kids, invite your friends, but most of all – don’t forget the dog! Not all orchards and farms allow pets, so if you aren’t sure your dog is welcome, make sure to give them a call before heading out. We’ve done a bit of research and found that The Apple Orchard in Hamilton, Chudleigh’s in Halton Hills, and Carl Laidlaw Orchards in Brampton are all pet friendly!
The Apple Orchard (Hamilton)
Chudleigh’s (Halton Hills)
Carl Laidlaw Orchards (Brampton)
Farmers’ Market
Nothing beats meandering between local farmers’ stalls while buying fresh produce. The only thing that could make it better is bringing your best friend! While you’re buying your own fruits and veggies, consider adding some healthy snacks to your pet’s diet. Carrots, sweet peppers, blueberries, raspberries, cucumber, and beans are all safe for dogs and many pets find them to be a fun treat! Just double check with your dog’s veterinarian prior to making any dietary changes.
- Dorval Crossing Civitan Farmers’ Market, Oakville
- Milton Farmers’ Market
- Burlington Centre Lions Farmers’ Market
Get out this fall to take advantage of one of the many pet-friendly activities listed, just waiting to welcome you and your furry friend! Tell us what fun-filled adventures you do with your dog this fall!