When the weather is too hot to take your dog for a walk, get creative about indoor options.
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This summer, many parts of North America are facing extreme heat, making it unsafe to walk dogs outdoors. Now is an excellent time to explore indoor alternatives for walking and enjoying outings with your pet.
Researching local indoor venues in advance is essential to ensure a smooth experience, advises Beth Miller, founder of Wagtown, an organization dedicated to enhancing dog-friendly communities.
Miller emphasizes the importance of being responsible, stating, “It’s crucial to be the best humans and dog parents we can be, as our pets’ happiness and enriching experiences depend on how we approach, prepare, and handle these situations.”
To prepare for indoor outings, Miller suggests packing a “go bag” with necessities such as water, a collapsible bowl, poop bags, paper towels, and high-value treats to encourage good behavior.
Beth Miller, founder of the nonprofit Wagtown, has met with over 1,200 people across America to discuss ways to make their communities authentically dog friendly.
Courtesy of Wagtown
Where To Walk Your Dog Indoors
During summer visits to home improvement stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot, you might notice people walking their dogs. These stores offer long, easy-to-clean aisles, making them suitable for indoor walks.
The acceptance of dogs in businesses varies by location and company policy. Businesses that support local animal shelters are often a good starting point. Miller notes Subaru dealerships as generally welcoming, as the company has donated over $70 million to pet-focused organizations.
Indoor malls are another great option, given their easy-to-clean floors. However, Miller advises avoiding escalators unless your dog is comfortable with them, as some can be justifiably wary.
Indoor malls can be a strong option for walking a dog on a hot day.
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Pet stores are a natural choice, with staff often eager to interact with your dog. Banks may also be accommodating, but it’s best to inquire first, either by calling ahead or asking at the drive-through.
Miller suggests contacting real estate offices in advance.
“These offices are typically well-air-conditioned and have meeting spaces. However, there may be client meetings or closings, so it’s important not to disrupt business. Calling ahead to check if it’s a good time and explaining your goal of socializing your dog can be helpful,” she said.
Community centers sometimes organize dog-friendly events or swim days, especially around Labor Day. According to Miller, many community pools host dog swim events before closing for the season.
Community swimming pools often invite dogs to swim on the day before they close for the season.
Jen Reeder
While dogs are often not allowed indoors where food is served, breweries without food service can be a relaxing option. You can also explore local shops and look for water bowls at entrances.
Miller notes, “A water bowl outside can signal a dog-friendly environment, but avoid letting your dog drink from it due to potential health risks like parvo.”
Dog-friendly hotels or shoe stores are additional options, though not ideal for dogs prone to chewing shoes. Miller humorously compares it to her visiting an ice cream shop, wanting one of everything.
Liquor stores may allow dogs, depending on their size and temperament.
“A large dog with a strong tail could accidentally cause damage in a liquor store,” she said.
Similarly, furniture stores’ couches might be too enticing for many dogs.
Couches in furniture stores could prove irresistible for many dogs.
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Consider researching dog-friendly events within a couple of hours from your home. Miller enjoys taking her golden retriever, Harper, and mixed-breed dog, Sesto, to an indoor dock diving facility.
While REI stores only permit service animals, Cabela’s or Bass Pro Shops often allow pets, subject to local regulations. Attempting to pass off a pet as a service animal is unethical and can hinder access for individuals with disabilities.
Tips For Indoor Dog Walking Adventures
Beyond packing essentials and seeking permission, Miller stresses the importance of parking close to the entrance, especially in uncovered lots.
Miller highlights, “On a 115-degree day, walking barefoot across a hot parking lot is unpleasant. Consider your dog’s paws and avoid long walks over hot asphalt.”
Don’t park so far away from the front door of a business that your dog burns their feet in the parking lot. Otherwise, pack booties or carry them inside.
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Ideally, have someone drop you and your dog at the entrance before parking. Alternatively, carry your dog or use booties.
Never leave a dog unattended in a parked car, as it can be fatal, even in the shade or with windows slightly open.
If time is short, transform your home into a temporary activity space, Miller suggests.
“Rearranging furniture or creating an enrichment course with scent trails or games like hide and seek can make your home an engaging space for your dog,” she advised.
In a pinch, convert your home into a play area for your dog on hot days and find creative ways to entertain them.
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Miller concludes by recommending familiarity with your community and maintaining a list of local indoor options for extreme weather.
“Assess your community’s offerings and stay informed about any events or changes. Given rising temperatures and potential wildfire smoke, it’s vital to think creatively and ensure your dog enjoys life, no matter the weather,” she advised.
