Getting outside with your pets

By Carol Pezzula

The weather is warming up and everyone is looking forward to getting out of the house after the long winter months, including our pets.

Dogs are happy to be out in the sunshine, rolling in the grass, spending time with their families. Here are a few spring activities you can enjoy with your dog:

• Camping trips can be fun for dogs. It will give you both a chance to spend some quality time hiking and exploring together. You can camp out in a tent or check out dog-friendly cabins at parks or lakes. Also take your dog hiking. Your dog will so happy to explore new smells while hiking in nearby parks or trails.

• Get some exercise. Go out walking, running or jogging and take your dog along with you. You can just go out in the yard or go to the park and play fetch. Or work on some obstacle course training. If your dog likes to swim or play in the water, find a stream, creek or pond and let them have fun.

Every family and dog is different. We all have our favorite things to do with our pets. No matter what you do, the main thing is to have fun spending time with your dog, to them you are family.

Also June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, so maybe adopt a new feline friend and give them a forever home and a chance to enjoy life in a loving home.

The Humane Society of Rome has some amazing animals waiting to be adopted. They would be more than happy to become part of a loving family and do fun things with them.