Travelling around Christmas time can be expensive, busy and even stressful. This is even more true when you’re preoccupied with finding suitable care for your pet while you’re away or making sure its happy and healthy for the whole journey if it’s coming along for the trip. So, if you don’t have any big plans for worldwide travel this season, take the opportunity to explore local places to learn more about your own backyard while also experiencing some of the broader benefits of travel. There are many places to visit just around the corner with your furry friend in tow!

Gaining a new perspective

Seeing new places and exploring new landscapes is a great way for humans to gain new perspective and it’s no different for your dog. According to an article from NBC, while travelling itself has many benefits for physical and mental wellbeing, even just planning a trip can result in a noticeable increase in happiness. So, get out your pen and start building your itinerary. Even if you’re only travelling around the corner, your dog will enjoy the change of scenery and time spent outside.

 

Hit the trails

If you’re looking for a refreshing afternoon getaway in the woods, there’s sure to be some local trail networks near your home that your dog will love. According to an article in Psychology Today, dogs can help us be more mindful when walking or doing other simple tasks since they are so focused on the present moment and the sights, sounds and smells that surround them. You will likely find this a welcome change from the typically distracted, multi-tasking mindset of most of us humans.

Celebrate the season

Who says the holiday festivities are just for us? Your dog will relish Christmas markets or get-togethers for all the novel sights and sounds and the opportunity to make new dog and human friends. This is a great way to explore the offerings of your area while picking up some Christmas gifts and creating a memorable outing for your dog. After your excursion you can settle in for a warm nap to get ready for your next holiday outing.

 

Beach day

The beach might be a bit overwhelming in the summer with the sheer number of humans and dogs, but in the winter, it is sure to be a more serene and relaxing experience. Your dog will enjoy the change of setting and the opportunity to be near the water. LiveScience explains that we are adapted to love water and that most of humanity indeed lives by rivers, streams, on the coast and on islands in order to derive many benefits from it. Take advantage of this fact and share the experience with your furry friend.

Explore your own neighbourhood

If you want to experience a true staycation, try simply exploring your own neighbourhood more fully with your dog. Take a different route, go down a road you’ve wanted to explore but never took the time to, check out a local park or visit a neighbour. Just getting out of the house comes with myriad benefits for your dog and yourself—so start your exploration today!