Yellow Labrador puppy sitting next to an American Football - 7 weeks old

Tailgate with Your Pet: The Ultimate Guide for Football Season Fun

Reading Time: 5 MIN

Football season is upon us, and that means it’s time for tailgating parties. But what about our furry friends? Can they join in the fun? The answer is a resounding yes! You just need to plan carefully to ensure their safety and enjoyment. This blog post will guide you through ways to tailgate with your pet and get ready for football season.

soccer jack russell dog holding a rugby ball and laughing out loud with red sunglasses outdoors on meadow grass at the field

Preparing for the Tailgate

Firstly, always confirm that dogs are allowed at the venue. Once that is confirmed, check the weather. If it’s going to be too hot, cold, or rainy, it might be best to leave your pet at home. Pack enough supplies for your dog, including food, water, toys, and any necessary medication.

When tailgating with your pet, it’s important to make sure that you are both prepared. Make sure you bring the necessary items for your pet, such as a leash, water and food bowl, toys, and their favorite treats. Additionally, be sure to bring along any medications they may need. It’s also a good idea to bring a blanket or bed for them to lie on.

At the Tailgate With Your Pet

Find a cool, shady spot for your dog to rest, and ensure they have access to water throughout the day. Keep your dog leashed to prevent them from wandering off or getting into any dangerous situations.

If you have a pickup truck or SUV, consider using a vehicle ramp so your dog can easily get in and out. It’s also important to be aware of your dog’s limits. Not all dogs are comfortable in large crowds, so give them several breaks from the celebration.

When you arrive at the tailgate, it’s critical to keep your pet safe and secure. Dogs should always be kept on a leash and monitored closely while around other people and dogs. Before letting your dog off their leash, make sure they have plenty of room to run around

Remember to stick to their regular diet and don’t let others feed them. Also, make sure your dog’s tags are up-to-date before you go. Shop custom ID tags online here. It’s best to include your name, your dog’s name, and your cell phone number in case your dog gets lost.

Dog on black pick up truck back view

 

DIY Treat Recipes for Dogs & Keeping Them Occupied

To make the tailgate even more exciting for your pet, consider making some DIY dog treats. There are many simple recipes available online that use common pantry ingredients. Just remember to avoid foods that are harmful to dogs, like chocolate and certain artificial sweeteners.

Of course! Here are three simple and delicious DIY dog treat recipes perfect for tailgating:

Peanut Butter Pumpkin Bites:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Prudence Pure Pumpkin 
  • 1/4 cup natural peanut butter, like Wag Butter (make sure it does not contain xylitol, as it is toxic to dogs)
  • 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
  • Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix together pumpkin puree and peanut butter until well combined.
  3. Gradually add the whole wheat flour and mix until a dough forms.
  4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into small bite-sized pieces or use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes.
  5. Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
  7. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving.

Cheesy Sweet Potato Fries:

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into thin, fry-like strips.
  3. Place the sweet potato strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sweet potato strips.
  5. Bake for about 2 hours or until the sweet potato fries are crispy and the cheese is melted.
  6. Allow the fries to cool completely before serving.

Apple and Oatmeal Cookies:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup grated apple
  • Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix together the applesauce, rolled oats, whole wheat flour, and grated apple until well combined.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Flatten the dough slightly with the back of a spoon.
  5. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
  6. Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.

Purchase the Ingredients

Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods to your dog’s diet, especially if they have specific dietary restrictions or allergies. Enjoy making these tasty treats for your furry friend to enjoy during tailgating season.

Keep Your Dog Occupied With Toys and Chews

Keeping your dog occupied during the big game is also crucial. Bring along their favorite toys and consider investing in some dog chews. These can keep your dog entertained for hours, giving you time to enjoy the game. Benebone chew toys are a great way to keep your dog occupied for hours – they are made with flavors dog love, like bacon and maple, and are durable.

Does your dog get stressed whenever there are new people in the house? Consider calming supplements, like Heavenly Hounds Relaxation Squares or Progility Calming Singles. Calming supplements help get your pup relaxed during stressful situations. Usually, the calming singles are easy to give your dog because they come in flavors that dogs love, like peanut butter and bacon!

Smiling Couple Sharing Positive Emotion With German Shepherd Dog While Watching Soccer Match

Conclusion

With these tips, you and your pet can both enjoy a fun, safe tailgating experience. So bring out those team jerseys, pack up your tailgating gear, and get ready to cheer on your team with your best furry friend by your side! Football season will be even more of a blast when you tailgate with your pet!

Related blogs: Bloat in Dogs: How to Recognize the Signs and Prevent This Life-Threatening Condition, Managing Hip and Joint Issues in Senior Pets: How to Spot and Alleviate Your Pet’s Discomforts, The Ultimate Guide to Throwing a Dog Pool Party

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