Because sunshine feels better with a furry best friend by your side.
As summer slowly fades and pumpkin spice starts creeping into every store (I’m not mad about it 😄), now is the time to soak up those last warm days with your pet. Whether you’re a dog mom, cat snuggler, or all-around animal lover — these end-of-summer ideas will help you make the most of the season’s final stretch.
Think golden hour walks, frozen treats, spontaneous road trips, and simple joy. Just you and your pet enjoying the moment.
🌅 1. Take Golden Hour Walks
Evening walks during golden hour are a whole vibe. The light is soft, the air is cooler, and the world feels a little more peaceful. It’s also a great way to slow down and reset your mind — something both you and your pet can benefit from.
✨ Pro tip: bring your camera or phone for some dreamy selfies with your pup or kitty (if they’re up for it). The lighting is chef’s kiss.
🍉 2. Make Frozen Treats Together
Hot day? Cool it down with frozen snacks for you and your fur baby. Here’s one of my go-to dog treat recipes:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 banana
1 tbsp peanut butter (no xylitol)
Blend and freeze in ice cube trays or silicone molds.
For cats, try freezing tuna water or chicken broth in small amounts. Serve on a lick mat for enrichment and chill-out time.
🏖 3. Backyard Splash or Beach Day
Not every pet loves water, but for those who do — this is the ultimate summer send-off. Visit a pet-friendly beach, dog splash park, or just set up a kiddie pool in your backyard.
Even if water play isn’t their thing, lounging together in the sun with a cold drink (you) and a frozen chew (them) still counts as summer bliss.
🐾 Just remember: sensitive paws and noses can burn, so stay mindful of the heat and use pet-safe sunscreen if needed.
🎒 4. Go on a Mini Day Trip
Before the fall hustle kicks in, carve out one day for a simple getaway. It could be a scenic trail, a pet-friendly café, or even a quiet lake an hour away. New sights and smells are mentally enriching for pets — and honestly, for us too.
👜 Don’t forget to pack the essentials:
Water
Travel bowl
Leash + collar/harness
Poop bags
Favorite toy or blanket
It doesn’t have to be fancy — just new and shared.
🍓 5. Visit a Farmers Market
Many farmers markets allow leashed pets, and they’re full of delicious smells, kind people, and small-town charm. Bring your dog along as you browse fresh fruit, pick up a treat (for you both), and enjoy the easy pace of a Saturday morning outdoors.
📸 If you’re a content girlie like me, this is a great spot for adorable photos in your pet’s summer bandana.
📸 6. End-of-Summer Photo Shoot
Take a little time to document your pet’s summer glow-up! Put them in a seasonal bandana or cute bow tie, throw on your favorite tee, and get some final sunny photos before the leaves start falling.
If you want to match (of course you do 😍), check out the summer gear in my shop — bandanas, bows, cozy worry hoodies, and more.
🛋 7. Soak Up the Slow Moments
Summer doesn’t have to go out with a bang. Some of the best moments are the quiet ones — like journaling while your cat naps next to you, snuggling up with your pup and a cold drink, or sitting on the porch watching the sunset together.
Let your pet remind you to slow down and be present. Because these little things? They’re the big things.
💛 Final Thoughts
Seasons change, but memories stay. Before you jump into spooky season (don’t worry, that blog is coming next 😉), give yourself and your pet a few more sun-soaked memories.
Which of these ideas are you trying first?
Tag me in your end-of-summer photos @shopabbyscreativeescape — I’d love to see your adventures!
And if you’re looking for matching pet-and-me gear to wrap up the season in style, shop my cozy collection in my shop
