This summer isn’t just about morning snuggles and belly rubs – pet parents and their furry companions are socialising on pack walks, splashing around in the pool, and letting loose at weekend pet parties. It’s all about beating the heat with wags, woofs, and a whole lot of fun.
At pet events, doggos get to socialise, and pet parents get to chat, swap tips & more
‘Playing in water keeps dogs cool and mentally stimulated’For dogs, early mornings are the best time for a summer party. Gurgaon-based pet dad Arjun Chopra dedicates his and his doggo Alex’s weekend mornings to “cool-down and connect time”. “We usually start early, just after sunrise, and head to a nearby park that has a water play area for pets. Sometimes we visit pet-friendly cafes with mist fans and shaded outdoor spaces, where Alex can enjoy a chilled treat like a doggie ice cream, while I grab a cold brew. Water play is a big part of our routine – whether it’s a splash pool, a gentle hose-down at home, or a pet-friendly pool party. It not only keeps them cool and active, but also mentally stimulated,” he says.
Dog tunnel, trampoline: Activities to enjoy apart from pool (Location: Pet Pooch Resort)
At pet events, doggos get to socialise, and I get to chat with fellow pet parents, swap tips and share laughs over our furry companions’ antics. It’s a feel-good ritual
Arjun Chopra, a pet dad based in Gurgaon
Activities dogs enjoy at weekend morning parties
- Exploring the dog tunnel
- Bouncing around on the trampoline
- Splashing in the swimming pool
- Navigating the agility training zone
- Socialising and making new furry friends
– Shivi Nigam, founder of a Pooch Pet resort in Gurgaon, which hosts doggos and their parents for fun weekend mornings
Organising a pet party can be fun but requires safety measures to be in place
‘The key is gentle guidance’Simran Kukreja, founder of Pawmazing Escape, a pet experience curator company, says that pool parties are definitely a summer must-experience for pets. She says, “While most dogs love water, some might feel a little anxious around the pool, and that’s completely normal,” she says. Kukreja shares some tips:
- The key is gentle guidance, never push them in
- Start by showing them the way out first, it helps them feel secure
- For their first few swims, always support them from below
- Keep initial dips of shorter duration. Pool noodles, dog-safe balls, rings and floating toys can be a fun addition to their pool experience
- Post-swim dry-off is essential to avoid any skin infections
‘The key is gentle guidance, never push the doggos in’
“Morning visits to the pool is a part of Simba and my summer routine. It’s perfect for the pets to splash around and socialise, while pet parents get to connect and unwind,” shares Gurgaon-based pet mom Manju Dewan. “Simba and I love exploring pet-friendly cafes for relaxed brunches after pool time, and, on the hotter days, we stay indoors with cool treats, toys and plenty of cuddles,” she adds.
A shorter, well-planned celebration is better than a long one: Dr Deepak Saraswat, Zigly
Ensure safety along with fun: Tips to organise a doggo party
Organising a pet party can be fun but requires safety measures to be in place. Dr Deepak Saraswat, head vet at Zigly, a pet care company, shares what hosts must keep in mind while organising a pool party for their doggo and its pals.• Schedule pet parties during early morning or evening hours, creating multiple cooling areas• A shorter, well-planned celebration is better than a long one• The comfort of the pets and their safety should guide every summer experience• Ensure that the pet count in the room is within limits considering the space size• Avoid having a mix of smaller and large breed of pets• A party doesn’t mean same treats for all. Every pet has different dietary needs and the host must keep track• Always have someone watching the dogs in the water
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