Fall pet adventures

Fall is just better with a pet—but isn’t everything? Having that little companion with you presents a lot of adventure opportunities. Sure, there are some things you can’t do, but there so much you can! Get ready to enjoy fiery orange and red foliage, spooky activities and festive treats, all with your four-legged best buddy.

• Fall just seems like the kick-off to baking season! While prepping your own delicious pumpkin treats, try out recipes for festive dog friendly cookies and snacks, too. So, why not give these Scarf’d pet recipes a try?

• Watch a scary movie, whether it be at home or at a dog friendly theatre. That’s right, some theaters, primarily outdoor or drive-in locations like Twin Drive-In Theater in Missouri allow on leash pups. Grab your popcorn and get ready for a fun night.

• Many coffee shops other than Starbucks are starting to accommodate pups by offering complimentary Pupaccinos! So, the next time you stop for a tasty pumpkin spice latte, you can get a treat for your baby, too.

• Coming up with your pet’s Halloween costume can be just as fun as going to the party. Make a day of costume fitting, shopping or designing! Make one at home with things you already have lying around, or enjoy taking your dog to the nearest pet store to explore the options.

• Sometimes just soaking in that comfortably cool air is the best way to experience fall, right in your own back yard. Get the fire pit going, lay some blankets out, grab some snacks of course, and just snuggle.

• Taking your dog on a hike to see the foliage is one of the most visually amazing ways to enjoy fall. While pet friendly trails are all over the nation, Colorado has compiled a list of specific nature journeys that are not only great for dogs, but have jaw dropping autumn hues.

• PetOberfest takes place in Virginia, and is just one of the thousands of great events geared toward pets in this season. This festival is in late October, and will feature a parade, costume contest, food, entertainment…the works!

• Have a pumpkin patch photo session with your adorable fur baby. If your local patch doesn’t allow pups, then create your own with a few different sized pumpkins, gourds and corn stalks. Dress em’ up, or don’t! Because this is going to make for the cutest fall pictures no matter what. Turn the pics into a portrait and use it as fall décor for years to come.

• Invite your friends and their pups to a local park to enjoy the weather. Maybe even surprise everyone with some warm apple cider, and treats for the dogs.

• What could be better than a mountain getaway with man’s best friend? Not only do you get to see the changing leaves, but you’ll get to totally unwind in one of the most festive autumn environments. Like hotels, many cabins are dog friendly, but be sure to follow some simple guidelines to ensure you leave the property in great shape. Take a look at our cabin guide when visiting with pets!

So, what adventures will you take on with your fur baby this year? Will you trek to the mountains, or will you create your own adventures in your very own back yard? The weather is perfect, the smell of crisp leaves is in the air, and you can just sense the festiveness of the impending holidays. Take advantage of this dreamy time of year, by having countless exciting days with your furry one.

Karyn Wofford is a “Mom” to her fluffy, sweet dog Halli. She spends much of her time traveling and advocating for Type 1 diabetes—and Halli sometimes accompanies her on her adventures. You’ll find Karyn’s work on sites like Mother Earth Living, and in magazines such as Diabetes Forecast.