When some people think about enjoying a leisurely trip to the local mall, they like to grab their best friend to join them. That way they have a partner in crime for joining in with them and tasting all types of tempting treats at the food court. Plus, of course, it’s always good to have someone along to blame when your spouse asks you why you had to buy yet another favorite shirt or pair of jeans. (Your friend pointed out the sale, and it was two-for-one, right, so you just HAD to do your part in the deal?!)

Well, there are other ways to enjoy your mall adventures now, thanks to pet stores opening up throughout malls round the world and nifty pet accessories to use that enable you to bring your little best four-legged friend along with you.

First of all you can bundle Fido up in a pet stroller. Pet strollers are gaining in popularity and the funny thing is, mall visitors often peak inside them, thinking a cute baby is in there, only to jump back and gasp, “Oh!” when a hairy beast pops its head up for a pat or treat. So do be prepared for mall-peepers, as many will want to see your “baby.”

Now what some pet owners do is try to make the stroller ride as comfortable as possible, so Fido doesn’t try to jump out and run around the mall, a no-no. To do this, adding nice, comfortable dog beds on the inside is the best way to go. There are small sizes that may fit in there like a glove. However, if in doubt, just do your best and use any excess to line surrounding  stroller area on the inside, pushing it up against the stroller fabric walls like an enforced wall to keep Fido snug.

Now to get around well, dog ramps can sure work wonders. Most malls already have some types of ramps for wheel chair accessibility. And so do the pet stores inside them, if you need to enter from out back or from a side door. What you can do, though, to play it safe is pick up some affordable dog ramps that you can easily stash in your trunk or back seat to make things easier on yourself – and Fido.

Of course once you’re in the mall, it goes without saying, “Have fun!” Show off your “baby” and hand out small treats to passers-by who may want to pet your friend, especially young children. And of course go into the pet store to get free samples that they’ll surely be passing out to four-legged guests - -maybe even the owners, too.

Then before you head home, stop off at the local park and take Fido for a walk. Don’t forget that pooper-scooper and disposable bag to toss in the trash! Or opt to use your pet stroller again, using the ramps to help you up any rough areas like gravel roads or areas covered with debris from winter late-cleanup. Fido will enjoy the ride, snuggled inside with his warm, soft dog bed taking in nice fresh air and enjoying time with his best friend, you!

Here are a couple tips before you go to the mall with your pet and supplies. First, call ahead or check there without your pet first to make sure (a) there is a pet store and (b) you can bring your pet. And ask about access for your stroller and any specials rules and regulations there may be. For example, with some breeds of dogs, like pit bulls, you must have insurance in some states to cover any possible bites they incur to Humane. Check with your local Humane Society for tips and advice, too.

Tags: og, dogs, pet, pets, things to do with your dog, dog activitie | og, dogs, pet, pets, things to do with your dog, dog activitie

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