Activities For Dogs In Pennsylvania On Rainy Days
1k Views
0 Comments
3 Votes
Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
Pennsylvania may only get pretty average precipitation, but that doesn't mean that the rain won't still threaten to ruin any plans you had for outdoor fun. Between its rolling hills, gorgeous Appalachians and sprawling lowlands, the Keystone State has plenty to offer both visitors and residents alike when it comes to enjoying nature with their faithful canines, but that doesn't mean the rain takes away all it has to offer. In fact, there are plenty of indoor activities and ways to beat the precipitation regardless, as long as you know where to look - which is here. So if you and your dog are feeling a bit trapped by the rain, here are a few ideas on how to enjoy yourselves no matter what.
Check Your Shoptions
Popular
0 Votes
Rainy Day
Moderate
Easy
45 - 180 min
Items needed
Dog Bags
Leash
Umbrella
Activity description
Sometimes the rain can just be too much to work around, leaving you and your dog to attempt to avoid it entirely. But that doesn't mean the two of you need to be stuck inside your house, noses pressed against the window and wishing you could be outside like a classic kids movie. If you need to get out of the house but stay indoors, there are plenty of new dog-friendly places you can check out. Tons of stores allow well-behaved dogs to peruse their wares with their owners, so there will be plenty of opportunities to check out a variety of items. That means you can kill as much time as you like in a super easy way and all at a cost of your choosing (depending on what you decide to buy) without feeling guilty for not being outside.
Step
1
Shopping the market
The first step is figuring out which stores will be most appropriate to visit. Those who just love shopping might be surprised which chain stores are welcoming to canines. Clothing stores like Macy's, Gap, Bloomingdale's and even Nordstrom are dog-friendly, as are home improvement stores like Lowe's and Home Depot. When it comes to the intersection of people and dogs, outdoor-specific stores like Bass Pro Shops are often great selections, as they frequently carry sporting goods you and your dog can both enjoy, such as frisbees, tennis balls and even gear for your next adventure. If all that wasn't enough, many antique malls are also dog-friendly, and nearly every pet store out there, boutique or chain, is welcoming to your furry friend. Choose a few places that pique your interest and make a list of those nearby so you two can store hop.
Step
2
When it pours, hit the stores
Once you've picked out a few places to stop, saddle up your dog and hit the road - just don't forget to give them bathroom breaks before and in between stops if need be! Of course, you can treat this like any other shopping trip, but if you want to be extra savvy, consider using this time as another chance to beat the rain. Find a new umbrella, rain boots or a raincoat for your dog, so when the precipitation is only light to moderate, you two can still get outside for a walk. If you choose to do so, make it your first stop so you can test them out on your subsequent stops.
Park It Indoors
Popular
1 Vote
Rainy Day
Moderate
Normal
45 - 180 min
Items needed
Dog Bags
Leash
Vaccination Records
Dog Toys
Activity description
When you have a dog that has a high energy drive or just plain needs some exercise, rainy days can be the absolute worst, as it likely keeps the pair of you from taking a walk, run, hike, bike ride or a trip to the dog park. Thankfully, some states are getting hip to the fact that bad weather is unavoidable during certain times of the season and have developed all-in-one facilities to accommodate those inconvenienced by it. Due to Pennsylvania's size and population, quite a few have popped up all over the state, so those in almost all parts have reasonable access to something at least somewhat close. They're not always cheap, as you often need a membership, and it does take a few steps to get through registration, but when all is said and done, you'll have a place to go in rain or snow.
Step
1
Location, location, location
Before anything else, you'll need to see if there is a reasonably close facility. Bigger cities are generally blessed with more options, but you'll never know until you look. For example, locations are Misty Pines in Sewickley, Lucky Paws in Freedom, three Camp Bow Wows in Pittsburgh and K9 Kingdom in Wexford. Once you've picked a location, figure out which options make the most sense for you and your dog. If it's two hours away, you likely won't want to sign up for an inclusive package instead of just paying for use of the indoor dog park. Check the website and see what you'll have access to.
Step
2
The (not) fun part
Once you've nailed down your spot, you'll want to call or go online to see where to send your information. Most places need three important things: your basic information, payment information and your dog's vet/vaccination records. Most places will accept email or fax while others may prefer you mailing them or bringing them in person. The process may take less than an hour or up to a few days, so it's best to call and get all the necessary information up front to expedite the process. There are a few places that also require a doggy interview to assess their personality, but this will be explained up front.
Step
3
Playtime!
Once you've got the paperwork done, the payment made and any final steps completed, it's time to head over and play! You'll need to check in but you should also be given the remainder of any information you may still need or may have missed. Once you're through, it's playtime! If you signed up for a membership, you'll now have regular access to an indoor facility, rain, snow, or shine should you need a place to go. And don't forget, most of these facilities also offer training classes (another great rainy day activity - those may need to be signed up for in advance) as well as boarding and grooming, so take advantage and explore your options thoroughly.
Embrace The Wetness
Least Popular
2 Votes
Rainy Day
Cheap
Easy
45 - 120 min
Items needed
Leash
Dog Bags
Towels
Activity description
Unfortunately, this activity won't work at all times of the year and it certainly won't work for all types of dogs - this one takes getting wet. But fortunately, it does work best in the rainiest season, which generally falls between July and September, meaning the rain itself, not the temperature, will likely be the only thing from getting you outside. If you and your dog are brave enough (and don't mind getting wet) there are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of. The only caveat is that you'll want to make sure there's no lightning, as that throws every one of these options out the window. Otherwise, as long as it's warm enough, you can do these easy activities anytime it rains, generally for cheap, and you can spend as much or as little time doing them as you please. Mind you, it will take considerable drying time and potentially cleaning, but it may just be worth it.
Step
1
Be a kid again
We'll start with the absolute simplest thing you can do: be a kid again. When it rains, throw on your swimsuit and go romp! If you have a dog-friendly park nearby, perfect - just be careful of the type of "mud" you may be stepping in if it's a dog park. If you have a yard, even better. If you're feeling adventurous, grab a water gun or a dog toy and make a game of it or just grab their leash and take them on an unconventional walk.
Step
2
Wet adventures
If you're feeling even bolder and have access to a dog-friendly beach or lake, you can take advantage of that as well. Canoeing, kayaking, swimming and stand-up paddle boarding are all great adventurous options and you may be surprised how welcomed you will be to a business that rents those types of things on a day that, for them, would otherwise be almost completely marred by the weather - you may even get a discount. Since you may get wet during those activities anyway, you might as well do it while it's raining too so you'll have even fewer reservations about getting in the water. Just don't forget that you may not have a proper spot to dry off before hopping back in your car, so bring lots of towels for you and your dog to sit on on the way home!
More Fun Ideas...
Interactive toys
If you already have one or want to make your shopping trip more worthwhile in the long run, considering getting your dog an interactive toy or puzzle. They're great for keeping even the antsiest of dogs mentally entertained and they're certainly fun to watch for owners too!
Rexercise
If you have a particularly hyper dog and can't get outside or to an indoor park like mentioned above, consider making your dog an indoor track or exercise area. Staircases and treats are a great way to get your dog moving and tire them out, but with a little creativity, there are tons of ways to get them panting indoors.
Conclusion
When the rain gets tough, the tough get creative. Although Pennsylvania isn't the rainiest state, the weather is sure to threaten to ruin a few days throughout the year regardless of when it happens. We hope our activity guide has given you some ideas on how to both avoid and embrace those seemingly endless rainy days. If nothing else, with any luck, it will at least be a reminder that all you need is some determination and a bit of creativity to make the best use of days many others might consider wasted.