Precious Shih-Tzu 'Strutting His Stuff' on Vacation Is What Summer Dreams Are Made Of

A lot of kids all across America are heading back to school this week. Parents are blowing huge amounts of money at The Container Store in anticipation of moving their babies into dorms. That amazing ghost mirror from Pottery Barn is sold out and I am all ready seeing pumpkin spice displays of products at my grocery store. That's right, it may still be August but it's fall, y'all, even if some of us aren't even ready to say goodbye to summer yet.

That's why I'm suggesting everyone pack up their dog for a weekend or a week and do what this tiny little Shih Tzu did on a recent trip to Booth Bay Harbor in Maine. Just check out his strut and tell me this isn't what summer joy looks like!

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Having a dog with you when you go on vacation is special for a number of reasons. Not only does it add to the memories you make but it also forces you to slow down and view things from your pup's perspective. Dogs love exploring new places on walks and taking time to sniff everything which makes dog parents notice things they may not have if not for the furry little friend at the end of the leash.

Related: Dog Dad Shows Heartwarming Way Vacations Have Changes Since Adopting Blue Staffie

Even if it's only exploring your own city or visiting a new dog park, why not get out there and have some fun before the weather turns colder and the dog days of summer are far behind us?

What Your Dog Needs For a Summer Vacation

If you are going to try and get in one last summer fun trip with your dog before fall arrives, it's always a good idea to pack some essentials to bring with. Especially because you have no idea if your destination will have what your pup needs when they are away from home!

You should pack with a supply of their everyday food, to keep their digestion as normal as possible and you should also limit the human food you give your dog on the trip. The last thing you need or want is a dog with tummy troubles while traveling! Make sure you pack their food and water bowl too and any medications they take.

Bring with their vet records and make sure their microchip information is updated . If your dog should run off it's important their microchip information is current so you can get them back as quickly as possible.

Even if your pup is fully potty trained, bring with a few puppy pads. Being in an unfamiliar place like a hotel or an AirBNB could cause your pup to have an accident or forget where the outside door is, so it's better to be safe than sorry!

Bring with their comfort items, like some beloved toys and a blanket. Their dog bed can also be handy in an unfamiliar place. If you plan on leaving your dog in the room, their crate can be helpful and keep your dog from being destructive in an unfamiliar place.