There’s nothing quite like spending a sunny afternoon at the ballpark, hot dog in hand, cheering on your favorite team. And if you’re lucky, your furry best friend gets to join the fun! More and more stadiums and parks are hosting “Bark in the Park” nights, pet-friendly runs, and family-friendly athletic events where pets are welcome spectators.
But just like athletes need to stay hydrated and safe, so do our pets. Taking your dog (or adventurous cat!) to a baseball game or outdoor event is a great way to make memories—if you’re prepared.
Here’s how to make sure your pet stays healthy, safe, and tail-wagging happy at your next athletic outing.
Hydration Is Key
Just like humans, pets need plenty of water—especially on hot days.
- Bring a collapsible bowl and fresh, cold water.
- Offer water frequently, even if your pet doesn’t seem thirsty.
- Avoid letting them drink from standing puddles or shared bowls, which can carry bacteria or viruses.
Pro Tip: Freeze a water bottle the night before—it’ll melt slowly and keep your pet’s supply cool throughout the game.
Watch the Heat
Pets are far more sensitive to heat than we are, especially breeds with flat faces like pugs or bulldogs.
- Look for shade and rest often.
- Limit walking on hot pavement, which can burn paw pads.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion: excessive panting, drooling, weakness, or vomiting.
Pro Tip: Bring a cooling vest or mat for your pet to lie on, especially if you’re seated in direct sun.
Treats Are Great—But Be Smart
It’s tempting to share your stadium snacks with your four-legged companion, but be careful.
- Avoid foods like hot dogs with onions, popcorn, nachos, or chocolate (all can be harmful to dogs).
- Stick to pet-safe treats and bring a few of their favorites to reward good behavior.
Pro Tip: Freeze dog-safe treats (like peanut butter in a silicone mold) and bring them in a cooler—they’ll love the cold reward!
Keep Them Leashed and Comfortable
Even the most well-behaved pet can get startled by a loud cheer, a foul ball, or the mascot walking by.
- Use a secure harness and leash.
- Keep them close—don’t allow roaming in crowded areas.
- Bring a blanket or travel bed so they have a familiar spot to settle down.
Pro Tip: For anxious pets, a calming wrap or jacket may help them feel secure in noisy environments.
Pick Up After Your Pet
This one’s simple, but essential. Always bring:
- Extra waste bags
- Wipes for quick clean-ups
- Hand sanitizer for yourself
Cleanliness keeps the space enjoyable and keeps pets welcome at future events.
Check Vaccinations and ID
Before heading out:
- Make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations, especially for rabies and bordetella (kennel cough).
- Your pet should wear a tag with your phone number, and ideally be microchipped, in case you get separated.
Make It Fun—for You and Your Pet
Baseball games and athletic events are packed with new sights, smells, and sounds. Ease your pet into the experience:
- Start with short outings if it’s their first event.
- Choose pet-specific events, like “Dog Day at the Park,” where the setup is designed with pets in mind.
- Give your pet plenty of praise, breaks, and time to explore—but don’t force them if they’re overwhelmed.
Know When to Stay Home
As much fun as it can be to take your pet out, some events just aren’t ideal:
- Extremely hot or cold weather
- Very loud crowds or fireworks
- Pets that are anxious or reactive around other animals or people
A safe, comfortable pet is better than a stressed-out one. And there’s always the next game!
A Win for You and Your Pet
Bringing your pet to a ballgame or athletic event is a wonderful way to combine two things you love—sports and animals. With a little preparation and a lot of care, you can ensure that your furry teammate has just as much fun as you do.
So next time you pack your glove and team jersey, don’t forget the water bowl and waste bags. Because when your pet’s happy and healthy, everyone wins.
Learn more at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/its-not-just-in-your-head/202406/can-animals-improve-an-athletes-performance
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The Sport Lady has been a lifelong sports enthusiast. She believes that sports have the power to unite people, create common bonds, and foster shared experiences. As a wife and mother of sports lovers, she is passionate about her favorite teams and cherishes every opportunity to watch them play. For her, every day is game day!