#dog activities

That's so cute 😭

It'd also be funny if mugman tried getting it back

I went out with friends yesterday so I didn't upload my chapter. I usually don't on weekends but I could today? I'm just at home bebopping around.

I’m a bit late - international geocaching day was two days ago! - but I wanted to share this article as an excuse to mention the geocaching dog facebook group “GeoPups Sports” which is an online dog titling of geocaching (with dogs!).

They are concealed on street lights, under rocks and up in trees — little containers at the centre of an outdoor, world-wide scavenger hunt called geocaching.

The treasure hunters, known as geocachers, navigate using GPS coordinates to track down and find a cleverly hidden 'geocache' and add it to their tally.

The recreation even has its own day. Today marks International Geocaching Day.

"Geocaches come in all different shapes and sizes — anything from the size of a button all the way up to a large ammunitions can," retired public servant Thomas Schulze said.

As Mr Schulze explains, inside the cache is a logbook, where the finder signs their name.

“It takes you to new places you'd never think of going — hidden little gems that geocaching sort of points out," Ms Kay said.

There are approximately 3 million geocaches across 190 countries, with more popping up every day.

And the respite support worker said the pursuit kept her active.

"If you wanted me to walk up a hill, I probably wouldn't," Ms Kay said.

"But if you put a cache up there, I'll go. If it's a 'first-to-find' I might even jog a little."

Other geocachers, like Kathy Hicks, credit the geocaching for pushing her past her comfort zone.

"Before taking up geocaching, I hadn't climbed a tree since I was a kid," she said.

"I've climbed about 80 trees in the last seven years to find caches.

Each cache is rated in terms of how difficult it is to get to and how hard it is to find once you arrive at its location.

Mr Schulze said geocaching offered something for everyone.

"If the terrain is listed as a [grade] one, people in a wheelchair should be able to get that — we like to try and accommodate everybody," he said.Some of the caches contain an item to swap — like a toy or trinket — which was what enticed 10-year-old Jasmine to join her mother Danielle Sharma out geocaching.

"You're supposed to swap with something of equal or higher value so the next child that comes along can swap and get a toy as well," Ms Sharma said.

"You're giving as well as receiving and it's a good way for children to experience that generosity for others."

Searching + Found it!

Got Snow? Let’s Go!

Here at PetKey we all know how overwhelming the winter season can be with nothing to do. But there are some benefits to winter. Many people who live in places of snow galore enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.

Did you know there’s an activity you can include your dog in, though? You heard that right. A winter activity you can enjoy with your doggies.

Snowshoeing!

At first this might not sound like the most glamourous activity, but you’d be surprised at how peaceful and enjoyable it is once you’re out there.

What’s the Human Need?

If you don’t know much about snowshoeing (don’t worry- most don’t), you’ll need a few things to prepare. Don’t fret, it’s not expensive.

Here’s what you’ll need: Cozy winter clothes, insulated hiking boots (or boots that stay warm), and snowshoes. If you want added balance, grab yourself some poles too.

You can rent or buy snowshoes. 

When you’re looking at snowshoes, you’ll see there are a few different types to choose from. 

You might want snowshoes tailored for walking on the frozen lake nearby or you may simply want to hike up your favorite mountain. Or, take it easy and walk down a regular snow trail.

Before you go out, make sure the weather won’t be too bad especially if it’s your first time.

A Dog’s Snowshoeing Accessories

Before you and your dog hike into the great outdoors, be certain to check the rules and regulations of place you’re choosing. 

There are some places that aren’t dog-friendly, and you don’t want to get in trouble. That won’t make for a fun experience.

You should consider your dog’s health and fitness level before choosing your destination. 

Pick somewhere both you and your dog will feel comfortable. And, don’t choose anything too strenuous if you and/or your dog have never done this before.

Even though it’s cold outside, your dog (and you) will still need to remain hydrated. Don’t forget the water.

Does your dog need a coat, too? Remember, if you’re cold there’s a good chance he’s cold. An insulated dog jacket could make a significant difference in your trip.

As we talked about earlier in the year, those dog booties also come in handy. We don’t want our dog’s paw pads to freeze. Grab those winter boots for your pup.

Stay Safe while Snowshoeing: Dog and Human

As with any hiking excursion, always let someone know where you’re going. 

There are many people who go out wandering without letting people know where they’re going and end up lost somewhere. 

If you are gone too long, and happen to get lost, people will know where to find you (approximately) and you’ll have help on the way much quicker.

Stay aware of your surroundings. The wilderness is beautiful, but you should remain alert for yourself and your furry companion.

Finally, prepare for the unexpected. 

You can’t never be ‘overprepared’ when going on a hiking trip. 

Don’t worry so much your trip is stressful. Just be sure you have packed all the essentials: extra food, extra water, an emergency kit, a compass, and a GPS if you have one.

Let’s Go Snowshoeing!

We highly recommend you dig deeper into this if you’re interested in this activity with your dog. 

We want to make sure you’re as prepared as possible and don’t want you to take on any activity you or your dog are not ready for.

As long as you’re prepared and ready for your adventure, you’ll have a wonderful time together snowshoeing and exploring the beauty of Earth with your furry companion.

(And a morrocan wife)

@marlothemountaindog @mango-pup you guys have made me long for adventure, and if Life wants me to catch a break, she'll make things go well.

Anyways. I'd like some tips for camping outdoor with a very short coated dog (with ears as big as her head that tend to get cold easily) and a hot-headed morrocan girlfriend who don't handle the cold very well. I know well need lots of blankets, but do you have any tips to insulate the tent?

Well most likely be in the forest,!

I think it’s just so different from how I usually train him which is very structured and involved on my part.