This article was previously published May 22, 2015 and was updated on April 17, 2023

Bring your dog on your weekend getaway – it’s fun for the both of you!

Summer is here and you’re itching for a weekend getaway, right? But you spend all week punching the clock away from your pooch, so the last thing you want to do is leave him with a pet sitter for the weekend. And why would you want to, anyway? Weekend trips are that much more fun with your best friend by your side. Here are three fun weekend getaway ideas to make it happen.

Go Camping

Whether you’re roughing it or taking it easy closer to home, camping is probably one of the most dog-friendly options available. Dogs can come along canoeing, kayaking and hiking, as long as you have the right equipment. A few things to keep in mind:

• Make sure your dog’s identification tags are up to date and you have enough poop bags for the entire trip (approximately 3 per day per dog)
• Consider purchasing a doggie life preserver if you’ll be out on the water
• Don’t forget extra food and an extra collar, harness and leash
• Bring along a pet first-aid kit, so you’re absolutely prepared for emergencies

If you’re not the roughing-it type, you can always camp at home with your pup. In Dish Network’s Lazy Guide to Camping, they suggest pitching a tent in the family room, cooking up some snacks and putting on a campy horror movie. Just make sure to prepare some “pupcorn” for your best friend.

Try Wine Tasting

Although wine tasting conjures up images of refined socialites, it is secretly known for being dog-friendly and relaxed. At least in the smaller family-owned wineries, dogs are often welcome to sit in the sunshine and enjoy their weekends while their pet parents enjoy some “me time.” Many wineries also allow guests to bring their own picnics, so consider packing some cheese, bread, nuts and other small bites to enjoy in the beautiful outdoors. Just make sure to pack your pup’s water bowl and maybe a few treats, and you’re ready to go. Wine Magazine has prepared a list of the top dog-friendly wineries across the country.

Take a Road Trip

Is the best part of a getaway the destination, or the fun you had getting there? We’d argue the latter. Road trips are great dog-friendly weekend activity for many reasons:

• One: Dogs love the car (specifically sticking their heads out of the window and eating wind)
• Two: This allows for a lot of quality time with your pets
• And three: There are always dog-friendly restaurants and hotels along major highways

Motel 6 is known for accommodating dogs free of charge (as long as they’re well-behaved) and BringFido.com lists tons of restaurants and other pet-friendly locations worldwide, so you can plan your route and pit stops accordingly.

Once you arrive at your final destination, arrange for dog care if you are attending an event that will take you away from your dog for a period of time. Locate a day care or boarding service — don’t leave your dog unattended.

Photo credit: Deposit Photos

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