Is your beloved pooch giving you those sad puppy eyes (yes, you know that look!) and making you feel guilty every time you leave the house without him? If you’re one of those people who can’t bear to be parted from your pooch for long periods of time (I’m certainly one of them), then why not include your pup in your family weekend outings and spend some quality time together. Whether you want to relax and lounge, or do something a little more active, I’ve sniffed out the best spots and activities for a fun doggie day out with the whole family.
Image by sideshow.sg
Sail the open seas with your four-legged friend. Charter a 26-foot catamaran for up to ten passengers (including dogs) and set sail from Punggol Marina Country Club to Seletar Island or Coney Island for some splish-splashing or a romp on the beach.
Image provided by Pet Cruise.
The 2-hour cruise is available every day and, depending on the day of the week and the number of passengers, prices start from $150 for the entire boat. The boat is equipped with doggie (and human) life jackets, dog bowls and bottled water. Even if your pooch isn’t a swimmer, he’ll still enjoy the cool sea breeze in his fur.
With over 25 years of boating experience and a dog owner himself, you’re in good hands with Skipper Joe at the helm. Anchors away!
Image provided by Pet Cruise.
Does your pup have good rhythm and is a bit of a butt wiggler? Then make a date with some friends for Sideshow’s Sunday on the Hill – a kid- and dog-friendly party series featuring a great line-up of music, F & B, games like basketball, and fun stuff for kids. Held in the garden of kult kafe on Emily Hill every month, it’s the perfect way to spend the afternoon hanging out with your pooch and your friends, and soaking in the vibes.
Sunday on the Hill is held on the first Sunday of every month and goes from 3pm – 10pm. Entry is free.
Social Hour at West Coast Dog Run
The dog run at West Coast Park is one of the largest in Singapore – that means there’s a lot of ground (and potentially dog butts!) for Fido to sniff! The dog run is securely fenced for dogs to roam and run free off-leash, and to sniff to their heart’s content. With plenty of wide open space, you can play a good game of fetch or Frisbee with your pup. And there’s a number of covered picnic tables to base yourselves and find shade.
Image by Judy Chow
Social dogs will enjoy meeting new four-legged friends but dog parks aren’t for everyone – especially dogs that are shy or easily overwhelmed. So if you’re pup doesn’t look like he’s enjoying himself, then it’s time to go home.
But, if your dog is a social butterfly, do observe dog park etiquette to ensure the safety of your furry pal. Always supervise your pup and his playmates at all times – don’t let your dog be bullied (or let him be the dog park menace!). And it’s best to save food or treats for your pup until after the park as it could lead to dog fights.
Image by Judy Chow
Make a Splash at The Wagington
If your dog loves water, then pack his swimming toys and head to the doggie pool (it’s bone-shaped!) at The Wagington, a luxury pet hotel. Although the pool area isn’t very big, it is surrounded by beautiful, lush greenery and they have a nice cabana to relax in. But before making your way to The Wagington, why not have brunch at dog-friendly Jones the Grocer at Dempsey Hill (try and grab the sofa and low tables at the side for a cosy spot with your pup). Then take a 10-minute stroll down to The Wagington on Loewen Road. Watch your dog swim from the comfort of the cabana or jump in the pool with your pup for some splashing fun (if you don’t mind the dog fur!).
Image by Judy Chow
It costs $23.50 for an hour swim/dog and, for an extra charge, you can wash and blow dry your dog after the swim.
Image by Judy Chow
The Riverwalk
Kids on scooters and dogs asleep under tables – that’s a typical scene at Robertson Quay on the weekend. With plenty of alfresco dining options, most establishments at Robertson Quay cater to the canine-loving crowd. First, take your dog on a nice walk along the Singapore River from Robertson Quay to Kim Seng Park (towards Great World City). On the way back, you can stop in at one these places where your pooch is always welcome – grab a coffee and a pastry at Toby’s Estate, or if you’re craving an Aussie breakfast or looking to catch the latest sports match, head to Boomerang. Fancy a glass of vino instead? Then you can’t pass by Wine Connection. And when the sun goes down, take a seat at Bella Pizza for their delicious pizzas.
Just a Day at the Beach
Image by Judy Chow
Everyone loves a day at the beach (including your pup) and, with its long stretch of sand, dog-friendly Tanjong Beach is a must for a fun day out. Take your canine pal for a run along the beach, a swim in the sea, or a dig in the sand. You can even try paddle boarding with your pooch! The best time to bring your dog is on weekend mornings – there will be other furry friends for him to play with. Enjoy a weekend brunch at Tanjong Beach Club and idle your day away with your canine companion on their comfy beach beds.
If a laid-back beach vibe is more your style, then stroll over to the more rustic Coastes at Siloso Beach. They serve hearty, seaside grub and there’s plenty of big tables in the shade for family days out. They also have doggie beanbags for your pup to relax on while you bask in the sun with a margarita!
Paws for a Picnic at Singapore Botanic Gardens
So you’re thinking about something a little more low-key to do with your dog? Well, we’ve got that covered too.
Image by Judy Chow
Pack the picnic basket and blanket, grab the kids and the pooch, and head down to the Botanic Gardens for a lazy afternoon picnic. Pick a shady spot and set up your picnic spread. Play a game of fetch (note: dogs need to be on a leash so bring a long one), fauna watch, or just plain snooze the day away. And before heading home, take a leisurely stroll or a jog around the lush gardens – it’s a great way to spend some extra time with your pup and get his daily exercise in.
So it’s time to start planning your weekend activities that include your furry friend. Always make sure Fido stays hydrated on these outings and don’t forget to pack the poop bags! And if you have other favourite places to take your pup on this sunny island, please share them with us in the comment box below.
Image by sideshow.sg
This article was originally published on www.ordinarypeople.ink and may have been edited for this platform.
