A Four Legged Adventure

A FOURLEGGED

ADVENTURE

BY KARISSA MANSKE

Animals teach us responsibility. Whether the animal you choose to have in your life is a pampered pooch or something slightly more rustic, like the calf you’re raising to earn 4-H ribbons, there is value in companionship. Idaho is an exceptional place to keep the adventures coming and make the most out of the time you spend with your four-legged friends.

Prepare to play

For the pups in your life who are social butterflies, dog parks offer socialization for them and you—especially helpful if you’re among those who got a poorly socialized pandemic puppy. “When we got our corgi, Link, we knew how important socialization would be, so we started taking him to dog parks as a puppy” says longtime Boise resident Danielle Young. “It gave him a chance to burn off all of his energy by playing with other dogs. I also met some great fellow dog lovers in the process. Dog parks have been an essential part of Link’s life.”

There are dog parks all over Boise. Link’s favorites include Molenaar Park and Dog Island in Ann Morrison Park.

If being around people is more your dog’s speed, bringing them out on the town for a beer or meal is going to make their day. There are many dog-friendly restaurants and breweries, including Edge Brewing and Hyde Park Pub & Grill, peppered throughout the valley. Generally, seating is patio-only, which is a plus for passersby looking to shower attention on your good boy.

Engage the competition

Learning the proper care and keeping of livestock has its own challenges. These skills take time and dedication to master, but can be wildly rewarding. Ranching is baked into the history of Idaho, and Boise has opportunities for kids to get involved through 4-H clubs and Future Farmers of America (FFA). Competitions are held every year at the Western Idaho Fair and give kids the chance to show off and possibly earn money for their hard work.

Kala Hernandez, agriculture education instructor and FFA advisor at Notus High School, sees these rewards firsthand.

“I think raising a market animal to show and sell at the fair is one of the most beneficial experiences an agriculture education student can be a part of. The dedication and time it takes to be successful at the fair teaches students skills that will help them be successful in the rest of their lives, no matter their chosen career path,” she says.

Take a walk

Taking walks is a key component of dog ownership. To keep things fresh for you and your dog, try new neighborhoods or easy hiking trails on the outskirts of Boise. The Military Reserve offers off-leash exploration, and the North End neighborhoods are great for dog walks. You can grab an ice cream cone at Goody’s in Hyde Park and weave through the streets to check out the little libraries scattered throughout, taking in the blooming mature landscapes and fellow dog walkers out for their daily strolls.

Bogus, a Golden Retriever, adores his human, Molly. / John Webster

An FFA member feeds a calf. / Adriane Isaak

I think raising a market animal to show and sell at the fair is one of the most beneficial experiences an agriculture education student can be a part of.

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Casualty insurance offered through United Heritage Property & Casualty Company and Sublimity Insurance Company.

For other opportunities, consider joining a group online with regular meet-ups. These meet-ups can be breed- or temperament-specific and many have a rotating schedule for places to meet. Groups decide whether the meet-up will be leashed or off-leash and if it’s a meet and play event or a group walk. Either way, it’s another chance to socialize and, if you join a breed-specific group, nerd out about the wonders and quirks of your dog.

Day trip with doggy

If you’re feeling extra adventurous and want to explore outside of Boise, there are pet-friendly hiking trails just an hour or two away. Many hiking trails are off-leash-approved for dogs. If you’re looking for something a little larger, these same trails are also great for horseback riding. Either way, for their safety and yours, pick the right trail for your level of experience.

Just a few miles outside of Idaho City, you’ll find Crooked River Trail, which offers plenty of challenging terrain alongside the river, with equal opportunities to rest and refuel. If your pup is a fan of the water, they’ll have fun keeping cool in the shallow parts of the river.

With any trail you may choose, remember to check trail conditions before you head out. The Boise National Forest website offers helpful information, including directions to the trailhead, types of traffic allowed, skill levels, and average time to complete. There are also forums full of people reporting on current trail conditions and hazards such as fallen trees or landslides.

Enjoying time with your four-legged friends looks different to everyone, but it’s always rewarding and fulfilling to see them thrive. As you make plans to go on adventures near and far, make sure that where you’re headed is pet-friendly, properly plan for their needs, and above all else have fun!

Winston serves as a trusty co-pilot for this writer.

You’ll never find a better best friend! / Karen Day