The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and it’s the perfect time to get outside and make some memories with your favorite four-legged friend. Whether you’re a trailblazing dog parent or a chill garden cat companion, we’ve got ideas to make May full of fresh air, tail wags, and muddy paw prints.
Spring Hiking with Your Pet: Tips for a Safe and Fun Adventure
1. Choose Pet-Friendly Trails
Look for trails that allow dogs and are suited to your pet’s fitness level. Avoid steep, rocky, or overly crowded routes. Trails with shade will help from overheating.
Pro Tip: Use an app like AllTrails to find local pet-friendly paths.
2. Pack the Essentials
Bring a leash, waste bags, plenty of water, collapsible bowl, healthy treats, and a basic pet first-aid kit. Don’t forget tick protection! Have you tried Wondercide, Skout’s Honor or Earth Animal’s products that we sell at both of our locations?
3. Keep Hydration Top of Mind
Pets can overheat quickly. Offer water regularly and watch for signs of fatigue or overheating like heavy panting or lagging behind.
4. Leash Up & Leave No Trace
Obey leash rules and always bring a leash along to protect wildlife, your pet, and other hikers. Always clean up after your pet.
5. Check for Ticks and Paws Post-Hike
After the hike, inspect your pet for ticks, burrs, or cuts. Wipe their paws and give them a healthy snack to refuel.
6. Enjoy the Journey!
Spring is a great time to explore nature—take it slow and let your pet sniff and enjoy the scents of the season.
Grow Together: Pet-Friendly Gardening Tips
Spring is the perfect time to cultivate a garden that’s as safe for your pets as it is beautiful. With a few thoughtful touches, your outdoor space can be a shared getaway of fresh air, sunshine, and playful paws.
Plant with Care
Choose non-toxic herbs and flowers like basil, rosemary, snapdragons, marigolds, and thyme. These add color, fragrance, and even pet-safe flavor! Don’t forget fresh catnip!
Create a Pet Paradise
Designate a special space for your furry companion:
A digging box or sandbox for playful pups
A soft, shaded spot for lounging while you garden
Know What to Avoid
Some common garden plants like lilies, tulips, azaleas, daffodils, and foxglove can be toxic to pets. When in doubt, double-check before planting or plant in an area that is inaccessible to your pets.
Skip the chemical fertilizers and pesticides—natural compost and pet-safe options keep tails wagging and soil healthy!
Anytime can be picnic time with your pet
Grab a blanket, pack some water and snacks (for both of you!), and enjoy a cozy afternoon outdoors. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of a local park or the quiet sanctuary of your backyard, you can easily enjoy a picnic anytime. Bring a ball or frisbee for a little fetch session or just enjoy people-watching together.
Don’t forget sunscreen, for you and your dog. Yes, dogs can get sunburned too—especially short-haired or light-colored breeds. Apply a pet-safe sunscreen to sensitive spots like ears and noses, and find a shady break when the sun’s high. Did you know that here at The Holistic Pet Nutrition Center, we’ve made our own sunscreen? It will be back soon by popular demand!
Extra tip: Bring waste bags and a towel—because muddy paws and picnic blankets are a classic combo.
Spring is short, but it’s sweet. Get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and soak up every tail wag, purr, and muddy moment. Your pet will love every second you spend together!
We will also have a class at our Missoula, MT location soon too. Please stay tuned!
