Author: Country Boarding Kennels

Valentine’s Day is here and for many pet owners it is a perfect excuse to show our cuddly companions how much we love and value them. Below we have highlighted 5 ways to make Valentine’s Day special for our furry friends. Enjoy!

1 Give Your Cat or Dog a Gift

Valentine’s Day is well known for gift-giving, so why not treat your cat or dog to something special that they will enjoy? There are many great gift ideas available to choose from online or in pet stores, ranging from cosy dog beds, cute cat posts, to edible pet treats and more. Alternatively, if you want to try your hand at baking some homemade Valentine’s Day dog or cat treats, there are some fantastic recipe ideas available online from which to choose. Because the most direct way to your pet’s heart is through their stomach!

2. Grooming Session

Why not treat your dog to some TLC and book them in for a grooming session this Valentine’s Day? A Valentine’s Day dog grooming session is the perfect way of showing your pet how much you love them by treating them to day of pampering.

3. Arrange a Playdate

A dog playdate is a perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your pet. A playdate offers the chance for your dog to play and interact with other canines or felines and helps them to release a lot of pent-up energy. If you have friends or family members that have dogs, then why not arrange a play date this Valentine’s Day?

4. Dog Walk

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your four-legged friend by going on a refreshing dog walk. Treat your dog to a trip to their favourite park or woodland area and take the opportunity to bond and connect with nature. A Valentine’s Day dog walk is also a perfect way of exercising together and preserving you and your dog’s muscles and joints.

5. Dog Parties

This Valentine’s Day, why not consider treating your pet to a dog or cat party? A dpg or puppy party is a fun way for your pet to learn to socialise with other dogs, and people. It is also a great opportunity for you to meet other owners, swap ideas and talk about any specific pet related issues you may be facing and need help with. Puppy parties are also a brilliant way of learning basic behavioural training techniques that you can try at home.

Closing thoughts…

We hope you found this article interesting. Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to pamper your pet and show the love of your life how much they mean to you. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have been working with cats and dogs for many years and our professional and friendly staff are ready and waiting to help your pet feel at home, and make sure they are as comfortable as possible during their stay with us.

It was recently reported that many British travel agents and airlines were documenting a 150 % rise in bookings on the very day Covid test requirements were officially lifted across the UK. Pet owners eager to get away from the UK and escape the January and February winter months – after many months of Covid restrictions – are now rushing to choose holiday destinations that were once red listed.

British Airways Holidays have witnessed an increase of nearly 400 % in website searches for many popular destinations now being removed from the red list. Now that Covid test requirements will soon be officially lifted, if you are interested in boarding your cat or dog, then you may want to book in advance to ensure your pet’s place. 

Start Planning Early

For many pet owners, organising care for their fury companions is one of the most crucial parts of planning a vacation. Our boarding kennels are often booked up months in advance, especially for the holiday periods, so, it is always advised to start planning early to ensure you can book your pet in to a suitable kennels or cattery during the dates you wish to be on holiday.

Licensed

Before you book in advance, it is important you choose a dog boarding kennel and cattery such as Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs that is licensed. All pet boarding kennels must be licenced by their local authority and should display a certificate to prove this. They also are awarded a Star Rating by the Licencing Authority and we have been awarded the top 5 Star rating.

Visit the Boarding Kennels

If it is your first time boarding your pet, then you should visit the boarding kennels or cattery before you go on your holidays. Finding the right kennels for your pet is very important. A visit will allow you to see the facilities and give you the chance to ask any questions you may have regarding your pet and their boarding requirements. The kennels or cattery should also be happy to answer any questions you may have via a telephone call or through email.

Board for a Short Period

A great way of introducing your pet to a new boarding kennel is by boarding them for a short period such as a weekend before you decide to leave them for longer. This can help them get used to their new environment and settle in quickly.

5 Boarding Steps

If you are interested in boarding your dog or cat with us, then follow these five simple steps: 

1. Your pet will require the recommended vaccinations plus Kennel Cough vaccination at least 14 days before he/she is boarded with us.
2. Call 01462 742658, send an email or use our booking request form and let us know your specific requirements.
3. Pay a deposit over the phone or on-line by card
4. We will send you an email acknowledgement, once your booking is confirmed.
5. We will look forward to welcoming you, and your pet to our family!

Closing thoughts…

Hopefully you found this article helpful. By booking your pet in to a suitable kennel in advance this will ensure that you both look forward to a lovely holiday. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs we have over 30 years of experience providing a friendly and professional dog boarding and cattery service for the Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Bedfordshire regions. Call our friendly team today on 01462 742658 or send us an email at office@cbkennels.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.

When it comes to keeping your dog healthy and happy, it is vital to regularly groom them to sustain high levels of cleanliness and keep them looking their best. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have suggested four important dog grooming practices for you to consider. Enjoy!

1. Monthly Nail Trims

Trimming your dog’s nails is an essential part of the dog grooming process, as it helps them to stay healthy and happy. If your dog’s nails are left untreated over time, then they can become overgrown and start to crack and break, which can cause your pet some discomfort. Many older dogs suffer from arthritis and in some of cases, this can be caused by their nails forcing their toe bones into abnormal positions. It is advised to trim your pet’s nails at least once or twice a month. When trimming your dog’s nails, it is also important to remember that cutting claws too short can harm blood vessels and veins that are nearby. When clipping your dog’s claws, only trim off the tip, making sure you are being always as careful and as gentle as possible. Remember, less is more! However, if you are in any doubt as to what to do, first consult your vet or a dog groomer.

2. Regular Check-Ups

As a responsible dog owner, it is vital that you perform regular check-ups for your pet’s eyes, ears, and teeth. If you are examining your pet’s eyes, check for soreness, greyness, or any weeping that may suggest health issues such as glaucoma, a scratched cornea, trapped grass seed, or even a dry eye. If you are cleaning out your dog’s ear using a cotton ball, try examining the area for any bad odours, waxy build-up, or inflammation. When it comes to your dog’s oral hygiene, just like humans, dogs also benefit from having their teeth brushed regularly. As soon as brushing becomes a part of your dog’s daily routine they will hopefully start to expect and enjoy it. If you have a healthy puppy, then they benefit from having their teeth cleaned three days a week.

3. Brushes and Breeds

Dogs come in a variety of different breeds, and many have different types of coats. Before you begin grooming your dog, research their breed and ensure you are using the correct brush for their specific type of fur. Regularly brushing your dog can reduce shedding, removes matted hair, increases their body’s production of natural oils and also encourages bonding between you and your dog, Another benefit of brushing your dog is that it helps you to closely inspect their skin and fur for any anomalies like bumps or blemishes.

4. Inspect for Ticks and Fleas

During a thorough dog grooming session, it is essential to check your dog’s coat for any ticks and fleas. It is no secret, that flea and tick infestations can affect the health of your pet. By regularly checking your pet’s coat for fleas and ticks, you can help them avoid skin rashes, skin infections, and possible ailments like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. It also helps you maintain an hygienic home environment. Your vet can advise on suitable applications to suppress infestations.

Closing thoughts We hope you found this dog grooming article helpful. If your canine companion needs grooming but you would prefer a professional dog grooming service, then please call our friendly team today. We ensure a calm and safe environment for your pet and have many years of experience cutting and

As 2022 fast approaches, many pet owners will be thinking about their New Year’s resolutions. But what if your pet cat or dog could make their own New Year’s resolutions, what would they be?  At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have suggested five New Year’s resolutions for your cat or dog to kickstart 2022. Enjoy!

1. Daily Dog Walks

Overeating at Christmas time can almost seem like a festive tradition. With so many delicious festive foods to choose from, it can be hard not to overindulge during the holiday season. However, by January many of us are looking for ways to burn off the extra calories. Exercise is a great way of getting back into shape and dog walking, is a fun way of doing this. If you are near any dog walking parks or fields then why not venture outdoors with your dog. There are many health and social benefits associated with walking your dog each day. Advantages for both dog and owner include improved cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, stronger muscles, and bones. Dog walking is also a great way of strengthening the bond between you and this can lead to a strong, trusting relationship.

2. Cut Out Unhealthy Pet Treats

Many dog treats can be extremely unhealthy for our four-legged friends. Always ask your vet for food suggestions suitable for your pet’s age, breed, and health condition. Some fruit and vegetables make great healthy pet treat alternatives, such as small bits of carrots, apples, and blueberries to name but a few.

3. Ensure Healthy Teeth and Gums

If you are worried about your pet’s teeth and gums, then speak with a veterinarian and arrange a Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT). Many cats and dogs suffer with poor teeth and gums. Regularly brushing your pet’s teeth is an important factor in sustaining a healthy lifestyle for them. When it comes to our feline friends, studies report that between 50 and 90% of cats older than four years of age suffer from some form of dental disease. Like humans, cats and dogs can develop gum disease, tartar and plaque build-up, foul breath, and abscesses, and their mouths can become infected and result in tooth loss. Try and keep on top of your pet’s oral hygiene for 2022 by protecting them against future mouth disease.

4. Mental Stimulation

Just like their owners, dogs and cats need mental stimulation to live long and happy lives. Mental stimulation can be just as vital as physical exercise for your pet’s overall development. Why not structure your pet’s day with a selection of stimulating mental activities like the ones listed below?

• Activity feeders are a great way of providing positive mental stimulation for pets. Mealtimes become instantly more interesting whilst also helping to exercise their hunting instincts.
• Consider indoor agility courses for your cat or dog with cardboard crates and toys.
• Introduce new toys and fun games.
• Consider teaching your cat or dog some new commands or tricks.

5. Attend Training or Obedience Classes

Dog training is highly recommended for any breed and at any age. Dog training plays a crucial role in their overall development. Dogs can experience reduced stress, improve their social skills with other dogs, and help to form a stronger bond with their owners. If you are unable to attend a face-to-face dog training class, then you may consider an online dog training service where you can get one-to-one training from the comfort of your home.

Closing thoughts…

We hope you found these ideas for your pet helpful and will inspire you to set some New Year’s resolutions for your cat or dog for 2022. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs we have many years of experience providing a friendly and professional dog walking service, dog boarding and cattery for the Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Bedfordshire regions. Call us on 01462 742658 or send us an email at office@cbkennels.co.uk for any enquiries or questions relevant to our services.

This December, in addition to putting up your Christmas tree, why not also consider planting a free sapling to help tackle climate change? North Herts District Council (NHDC) is working with the Tree Council to encourage local communities to #PlantForOurFuture and welcome in the winter tree planting period. One of the most effective ways we can fight against climate change is by planting more trees and hedgerows. Trees help purify the air we breathe; filter the water we drink as well providing a natural living environment to over eighty percent of the planet’s global biodiversity. It is estimated that just one tree alone can absorb approximately ten pounds of polluted air each year and release two hundred and sixty pounds of oxygen.

Over 10,000 Free Tree Saplings

As part of their environmentally friendly initiative, NHDC is offering residents over 10,000 free tree saplings to fight against climate change within the borough. If you live within North Hertfordshire, then you too can help improve local biodiversity and reduce air pollution whilst also lowering your own carbon footprint by getting involved with this great green initiative. Many North Hertfordshire residents have already collected a free tree at one of the Council’s many events to then plant and cultivate at home – or to even give to someone as the perfect green Christmas present!

Arborcare Tree Surgery & Landscape Ltd

If you are interested in helping to tackle climate change and want to get involved, then there is still time left. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs we recently visited Arborcare Tree Surgery & Landscape Ltd and spoke with the Operations Manager, Adam Pike to collect some free trees to plant. Arborcare is contracted NHDC and you still have time to collect your tree from them in January. Details can be found at NHDC’s website. 

Native Tree Species

NHDC uses saplings native to the UK and these tree species are deciduous meaning they shed their leaves annually. These native species include the Field Maple, Silver Birch, Sweet Cherry, and Hazel tree.

Planting your Tree

At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have planted many tree saplings on our 18 acre site often used by our dog walkers in Hertfordshire. However, if you have a smaller suitable space like a garden, ideally away from roads, boundaries and any buildings, so they can grow freely, then you too can plant a tree. If possible, you should plant your tree saplings before February while the ground is still damp.

A Greener Future Together

Councillor Steve Jarvis, Executive Member for Environment and Leisure, stated: “Trees and hedgerows are powerful tools in the fight against climate change. And the good news is that we can all make a difference by planting a tree! Whether you plant a tree in your garden or organise a community event to plant many trees, every tree will help us grow a greener future together.”

Closing thoughts… By planting a free tree this Christmas, you will be helping to lessen the impacts of climate change whilst also promoting biodiversity within North Hertfordshire. We hope you found this article informative regarding the NHDC’s  green initiative. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs we care passionately about protecting the environment and have many years of experience providing a friendly and professional dog walking service for the Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Bedfordshire regions. Call our friendly team today on 01462 742658 or send us an email at office@cbkennels.co.uk

December is a festive month for many dog owners. Christmas trees are illuminated with twinkling lights, and homes are transformed with brightly coloured decorations. But aside from the Christmas cheer, it is also an important month to boost your dog’s immunity. A failing immune system in dogs can make them susceptible to many diseases, such as infections, diabetes, osteoarthritis and more. Keeping your dog’s immune system balanced can help reduce these risks and contribute to their overall health and well-being. Follow these four simple steps below to help boost your dog’s immune system this December. We hope you find this article helpful!

1. Nutritional Food

Feeding our dogs, a nutritional balanced diet is so important in helping them maintain strong immunity. Your dog will have many types of bacteria, both good and bad, residing in their gut, and a healthy diet will help to ensure balance. If your dog has a gut full of unbalanced bacteria then they can experience digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease

Dry dog treats and other foods with low nutritional value can promote inflammation, so it is advised after consulting a vet to offer your dog a more balanced and moist diet containing meat and vegetables.  

2. Keeping your Dog Active

Obesity in dogs can often weaken their immune system and cause them to become lethargic. A great way of introducing exercise into their daily lives while also socialising them with other dogs, is to join puppy training classes and adult dog groups. You will also enjoy watching your dog having fun. If your dog has joint or muscle problems or just enjoys water then why not also consider registering them for swimming lessons or canine hydrotherapy.

3. Supplement with Fish Oil (Omega 3)

This December why not help your dog’s immune system by introducing Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish. If your canine companion is not getting a substantial quantity of omega-3 via their current diet, then you could consider giving them a fish oil supplement. Omega 3 not only helps to boost your dog’s immune system, but it will also help to loosen their joints, reduce skin inflammation, and help them to maintain a healthy heart and kidney. Introducing fish oil to your dog’s diet can also help them develop a shiny and healthy coat.

4. Vet Check-up

A great way of ensuring your dog has a healthy immune system is by having them regularly checked by your local vet. They are a great source of information concerning animal dietary needs. Check-up visits, give your vet the chance to check their immune system and to identify fluctuations in your pet’s overall physical health. If you have registered your dog with a local veterinary practice, why not book them in for a check-up this December?

Closing thoughts…

Hopefully these four simple steps will help boost your dog’s immune system this December. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs we have many years of experience providing a friendly and professional dog walking service for the Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Bedfordshire regions. Call our friendly team today on 01462 742658 or send us an email at office@cbkennels.co.uk.

With just over a couple of weeks to go before Christmas, many families around the world will now be putting up their Christmas trees and decorating their homes. However, if you are a cat owner then you will need to take certain safety precautions as many Christmas trees can be dangerous for cats. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs, we have listed five tips to keep your fury feline safe and happy this Christmas.

1. Picking the Right Tree

Real Christmas trees are beautiful and smell lovely, but the pine needles can be hazardous if consumed by your cat. Cat’s paws can also easily pick up the sharp pine needles and these can become lodged, causing your pet pain and potential infections if the wound is left untreated. Why not consider a realistic looking artificial Christmas tree instead? Fake Christmas trees are a lot safer for your cat and can be re-used for future Christmases. If you do opt for an artificial tree, then also consider buying a smaller one if your cat loves to climb and explore.

2. Setting Up the tree

As cats are naturally inquisitive creatures, a Christmas tree decorated with festive tinsel and lights can often increase this interest. Give your feline friend a chance to get used to the tree by leaving it bare for a few days. Once your cat is used to sharing their environment with the new tree, you can then hang the decorations. Hopefully by this point, your cat will be less interested in exploring your decorated tree.

3. Decorating the Tree

Cats are also naturally great climbers, so try and ensure that you decorate your Christmas tree with ornaments positioned higher up. Make it harder for your cat to reach these decorations by positioning them as high up as possible. The higher the decorations the better! The last thing you want is for your cat to bring down the tree with their paws as they explore the new shiny decorations you have just put up.

4. Cat-friendly Materials

There are many cat-friendly decorations available to buy online. Many cat-friendly decorations are made from fabric, silk, or paper materials and these can be safely and easily tied onto your tree. Try and avoid glass baubles as these can shatter easily. Tinsel can also be extremely dangerous to cats if swallowed. Many cats tend to swallow tinsel whole instead of chewing it up into pieces and in some cases, this can even cut through their intestinal wall. Tinsel looks festive but it can also lead to a severe infection if consumed by your cat. This Christmas, be safe and avoid tinsel altogether.

5. Christmas Lights

Twinkling lights help illuminate our trees with a festive glow, but they can also be dangerous for cats. To help safeguard your cat, consider placing Christmas tree lights towards the top of the tree so your cat is not enticed to chew on the cables. To further protect your cat this Christmas, consider covering the end of the wire that plugs into the wall with a cord protector. If you are leaving your cat unsupervised with the tree, then always ensure you unplug the lights.

Closing thoughts…

Did you find this article helpful? Hopefully these five festive tips will help you keep your fury feline safe and happy this Christmas. We have been working with cats for many years, and we know that a safe and secure cat is a happy cat. Our professional and friendly staff are ready and waiting to help your cat feel at home, and make sure they are as comfortable as possible this Christmas during their stay at our luxury cattery in Hertfordshire.

As we head towards Christmas, many pet lovers around the world will be busy making their Christmas lists for their beloved companions. Just like pet owners, every pet is different and so not every stocking will be the same. Dogs may be hoping for some nice chews and treats whereas cats may be hoping Santa brings them a new scratching tower or fury mouse to chase. Whether you own a cat or dog this article will hopefully give you some festive ideas to fill their stocking with. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs we have prepared four Christmas gift ideas your pet will hopefully love. Enjoy!

1. Cat Scratching Posts

This Christmas why not indulge your cat’s natural instincts with a scratching post. Scratching is a basic need for all felines. Cats often scratch to sharpen their claws to get rid of excess claw tissue. Another reason why cats scratch is to mark their territory. If your feline friend is unable to satisfy its natural urge to scratch, it will often turn towards furniture and upholstery. Fortunately, there are many different types of cat scratching towers available on the market. Make sure you do your research and choose the right cat scratching posts for your cat! Then watch your cat have fun!

2. Dog Leads

What better way to work off the Christmas turkey and pudding than by going for a festive dog walk! Dog walkers around the country will be pleased to know that there are some great dog leads available to buy for their canines this Christmas. From retractable leads to ones connected to stylish harnesses, the list is endless. If your canine companion is in need of a new dog leash, then why not invest in ones inspired with festive themed designs for the holiday period. 

3. Robotic Cat Toy

What do you get the cat that has everything? How about, a robotic cat toy! If you are a cat owner who loves gadgets, then this really is a must have. Not only will your cat have hours of fun playing with it on Christmas day, but you will also! One such robot cat toy, is called the Ebo Catpal by Enabot. According to Amazon, the Ebo Catpal is “specifically designed to prevent loneliness and boredom in your cat while you are not at home.”

Like something from a Sci-Fi film, this little bot uses A.I (artificial intelligence) to understand your feline’s behaviours, feelings, and style of play. The bot’s eye movement and audio features help to replicate real-life play to make sure your feline friend will be engaged and mentally stimulated. These robotic A.I toys can also help your cat to get the daily exercise they need to stay fit and healthy!

4. Dog Beds

With so many cosy dog beds on the market to choose from it can be a little overwhelming trying to pick the best one. There are many factors that need to be taken into consideration, such as size, cost, comfort, your dog’s medical needs, convenience, and many more.

There are many advantages to having dog beds which make them such a great Christmas gift. The versatility of a dog bed means that they can be used by your dog to nap in during the day and sleep in at night-time.

A dog bed is so much better than the floor as it will keep your pet warm, help to strengthen their joints, and help to ward off calluses. If you also happen to suffer from dog allergies, then it is always recommended that your dog sleeps in their own bed and not yours.  Whatever dog bed you decide on purchasing this Christmas, make sure you research the market and consult your veterinarian about your dog’s requirements.

Closing thoughts…

Did you find this festive themed article helpful? Hopefully this article will inspire you to choose the best Christmas gift idea for your cat or dog. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs we have many years of experience providing a friendly and professional dog walking service for the Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Bedfordshire regions. Call 01462 742658 or send us an email office@cbkennels.co.uk for dog walking in Hertfordshire. 

From recycling our waste, taking shorter showers, to cutting down on our home energy use, there are lots of ways we can go green. But how can we include our pets in a greener lifestyle? Below are four ways you can go green with your pet to help protect the environment we live in. We hope you find this article interesting. Enjoy!

1. Compostable Bags

The next time you are on a dog walk and your best friend poops, why not consider using 100% compostable bags. These fully compostable bags are great for the environment as they are made from vegetable matter like potato or corn starch which is fully broken down. In comparison, many plastic poo bags can take anywhere from ten to one thousand years to fully decompose when they are dumped in landfills. Plastic bags begin as fossil fuels and end up as toxic waste in landfills and perhaps in the ocean which has a devastating effect on marine life. When plastic bags slowly perish under sunlight, toxic substances are released into the soil which can have a severe impact on the wildlife and the ecosystem.

2. Bulk Buy Pet Food

Bulk buying your pet’s food really helps to reduce multiple trips to the supermarket and the high number of plastic packaging ending up at landfills. A great way of helping to protect the environment is to ensure you only buy products packaged in recycled or recyclable materials. Many leading brands are now doing this which is great, so shop around and choose a brand that is fully eco-friendly and one that your dog finds appetising. Another great green tip is to store your dog’s food in reusable recycled storage containers instead of plastic crates!

3. Support Green Pet Industry Manufacturers

You may also be interested in buying pet products made from recycled materials. Reusing the fabric in old clothes means less resources, both monetary and environmental, are wasted in growing fibres for new ones. Similarly, why not also consider other greener ways of protecting the environment, like buying certain second-hand cat and dog accessories and products. You can support individual pet industry manufacturers on platforms such as eBay or Gumtree who often sell their unwanted pet leads, collars, cat and dog beds and other products they may have available. This is not only a great way of saving money, but it also helps to keep those products from ending up at a landfill. By donating and buying second-hand dog accessories and products, you are reducing the size of landfills and therefore the levels of pollution. 

4. Recycle Pet Food Containers

Why not consider recycling your dog’s food containers? Many dog food cans are made from steel or aluminium, and these can be safely deposited in your recycling bin after your dog has finished with them. Make sure they are properly cleaned before you put them in the recycling bins as food will often attract birds and other animals. Remember all recyclable materials should be clean otherwise they can be rejected by your waste collection contractor.

Closing thoughts

We hope you found these eco-friendly pet tips helpful. By following these green tips and others online, we can help make a positive impact on the environment. By going green with your pet today, you will help build a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow for future generations of pets and their owners.

Autumn is here. The weather is colder, and the days are shorter. Exercising outdoors can often be the last thing on our minds. However, exercising during the colder seasons can really benefit us by improving our overall health and wellbeing. This is also true when it comes to our four-legged friends. This article highlights four ways to help boost your dog’s health and wellbeing this autumn. We hope you find this article helpful!

1. Dog Groups

Puppy training classes and adult dog groups are a perfect way to introduce exercise into their daily lives as well as better socialising them with other dogs. If your dog loves splashing in the water, then why not consider registering them for swimming lessons or canine hydrotherapy if they suffer from any joint or muscle issues. Puppy Parties are another great way for your dog to exercise through playing and interacting with other dogs which will also help improve their wellbeing.

2. Fun Games

Games such as fetch, and tug-of-war are perfect to play outdoors, especially in autumn where the brightly coloured foliage transforms the scenery around them. These games can be a great way of helping your dog stay healthy. Get involved in the game of fetch, by tossing them their favourite cuddly toy or ball and then running with them to retrieve it. By getting more involved, the two of you will have more fun together which is great for strengthening existing bonds and keeping fit.

If you have an old piece of cloth or a rope, then you can play tug-of-war with your dog. The game is a great way to help your dog learn self-control. Nevertheless, this game does come with certain risks. For example, the game may bring out aggressive behaviour in your pet. Be conscious of this risk factor and try and establish a strong relationship of trust and respect with your dog before attempting this game.

3. Found You!

Hide and seek is a great game to play in autumn. You can play this game indoors or outside. Simply stock up on your dog’s favourite healthy snacks in preparation for this game. If you have children, then this is a great family fun game to play with your dog. Once a person has found a suitable hiding place, they will need to call the dog’s name. As soon as your dog finds the hiding person, that person can reward them with their favourite treat. This is another great way of getting your dog to exercise as well as helping to strengthen your existing bond with them.

4. Walkies

The autumnal hues and cooler temperatures this season make it a perfect time to enjoy long dog walks. Autumn welcomes plenty of new sights and smells for your dog to explore the next time you take them on a dog walk. Take advantage of this beautiful season by wrapping up warm and connecting with your pet and the natural environment around you.

Closing thoughts

We hope you found this article helpful. Hopefully you can explore these exercise and wellbeing activities with your dog, the next time you go on a dog walk this Autumn. At Country Boarding for Cats and Dogs we have many years of experience providing a friendly and professional dog walking service in Hertfordshire. Call our friendly team today on 01462 742658 or send us an email at office@cbkennels.co.uk.