Summer’s Here: Let’s Make It Safe and Fun for Your Pup
Saskatoon summers are short, sweet, and made for patio hangs and trail walks — and if you're anything like us at City Park Vet, you know it's way better with a dog by your side.
Whether your pup loves to sprint through off-leash parks, lounge on café patios, or just nap in a backyard kiddie pool, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season together. That said, summer comes with its own set of challenges for our four-legged friends — from hot pavement to tick-covered trails.
As your local Saskatoon vet, we’ve put together our go-to list of fun, safe summer activities for dogs around the city. It’s full of local favourites, practical tips, and gentle reminders to help you and your pup have your best summer yet.
Here’s how to keep things playful and safe - tail wags guaranteed.
1. Splash & Dash: Off-Leash Dog Parks Around Saskatoon
Few things light up a dog’s day like the freedom to zoom, sniff, and play with new friends. Saskatoon is home to some fantastic off-leash parks, including local favorites like Chief Whitecap, Paul Mostoway, and Sutherland Beach. Each offers its own vibe — from wide-open prairie fields to shaded riverside trails; making it easy to find your pup’s happy place.
Before you unclip the leash, a few friendly reminders from your local Saskatoon vet:
Vaccines matter — Dog parks bring dogs together, which means a higher risk of spreading illness. Make sure your pup’s vaccines (especially parvo, distemper, Bordetella, and rabies) are up to date before heading out.
Recall is everything — Even in fenced parks, a solid “come” command keeps your dog safe and respectful of others.
Every dog is different — Not all pups love dog parks, and that’s okay. If yours prefers solo strolls or smaller playdates, honour that.
Want to explore Saskatoon's best off-leash spots in more detail? Keep an eye out for our full guide to local dog parks — coming soon.
2. Patio Season: Dog-Friendly Cafés and Eateries
Is there anything more Saskatoon-summer than a good patio and a cold drink? Thankfully, several local spots are just as happy to host your pup as they are to serve your iced latte.
Here are a few dog-friendly patios our clients (and their dogs) love:
City Perks – Just down the street from the clinic, this cozy neighborhood café has a shady, tree-lined patio and often sets out water bowls for furry guests.
Tot Café (Stonebridge) – A charming, community-focused spot in the south end of the city with a relaxed patio and welcoming staff.
High Key Brewing – A laid-back craft brewery with a spacious outdoor area and cold drinks for the humans.
Leopold’s Tavern – With several locations across Saskatoon, Leopold’s patios are a great option for casual hangs with your leashed pup.
Before you grab the leash and head out, a few vet-approved patio tips:
Stick to the shade – Patios can heat up fast. If it’s too warm for your hand, it’s too warm for your pup’s paws.
Hydrate often – Bring a collapsible water bowl or ask for a dish of water.
Read the room – Not every dog is a patio pro. If your pup seems anxious or overstimulated, it’s okay to take a break or wrap things up early.
Ask before you sit – Even at dog-friendly places, it’s courteous to double-check with staff before settling in.
Bonus points if your pup can tuck under the table calmly: patio etiquette in action!
3. Scenic Walks & Hikes to Explore Together
Saskatoon’s river valley and green spaces are perfect for dogs who love to sniff, stroll, and soak up the sunshine. Whether you're out for a quick loop or a long afternoon wander, there's no shortage of trails to explore.
A few of our favourite dog-friendly routes:
Meewasin Valley Trails – With plenty of access points and stunning river views, this network of paths winds through the heart of the city and offers lots of opportunities for leashed walks and shaded breaks.
Cranberry Flats Conservation Area – Just a short drive south of Saskatoon, this spot features scenic trails and a riverfront beach area perfect for leashed walks and a bit of splash time.
Gabriel Dumont Park – Popular with families and leashed dogs alike, especially in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler.
Before you head out, a few things to keep in mind:
Pack the basics – Bring a collapsible water bowl, waste bags, and some high-value treats. A long leash can be great for giving your dog a bit more freedom while staying safe.
Watch those paws – Pavement and gravel can heat up fast. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog.
Check for ticks – Especially in wooded or grassy areas. Do a quick check when you get home, paying close attention to ears, armpits, and under the collar.
If your dog is new to longer walks or recovering from injury, feel free to ask us about low-impact route options or ways to build endurance safely.
4. Cool Off: Water Play and Wading Spots
Some dogs live for a splash, and Saskatoon summers offer a few great ways to beat the heat—if you know where to go. While the city doesn’t have official dog beaches, there are still safe spots and special events to help your pup cool off.
Pup-approved water play options:
Chief Whitecap Off‑Leash Area (includes river access beach) – For water-loving dogs with strong recall, this fenced zone lets them wade by the South Saskatchewan River. Just watch out for currents, debris, and fellow furry swimmers.
City of Saskatoon’s "Dog Day of Summer" at Mayfair Outdoor Pool – Held each late summer, this annual event (usually after the pool closes to people) gives your dog exclusive swim time in a zero-entry pool. While humans don’t swim, pups do! Registration opens in early July for the session in August. Learn more →
Veterinarian-approved water safety reminders:
Beware blue-green algae – Do not let your dog into water that looks murky, green, or film-covered; toxins can be deadly.
Avoid fast currents – Even shallow spots in the river can be riskier than they first appear.
Dry off thoroughly – Damp ears and coats are breeding grounds for infections like hot spots and yeast.
Provide fresh water – Skip the river water—bring a bowl of clean, cool H₂O.
If swimming isn’t your dog’s thing, consider a damp towel, shady nap, or even a kiddie pool in the backyard to keep them comfortably cool.
5. Backyard Bliss: At-Home Enrichment Ideas
Not every dog needs a big adventure to enjoy summer. Some are happiest right at home—lounging in the shade, sniffing around the yard, or soaking their paws in a kiddie pool.
Here are a few vet-approved, backyard-friendly ways to make the most of warm days at home:
🧊 Keep Them Cool
Set up a kiddie pool in a shaded spot for supervised splash sessions.
Freeze kibble or treats into ice cubes or use frozen broth in a slow-feeder or lick mat for a fun cooling activity.
Offer a damp towel to lie on during the heat of the day, or a cooling mat if your pup is extra sensitive to heat.
🧠 Mental Enrichment Matters
Hide treats in the grass or use a snuffle mat for an outdoor scent game.
Toss kibble into a folded-up towel or cardboard box to let them forage and tear.
Try simple training refreshers outside: a few minutes of sit, stay, come, and paw builds confidence and burns brain energy.
☀️ Safety First
Always supervise outdoor time, especially during peak sun hours.
Ensure your yard is secure and free of hazards (e.g., toxic plants, open gates).
Provide fresh water and a cool retreat indoors when they’ve had enough sun.
This kind of enrichment is especially great for senior dogs, puppies still building confidence, or dogs who are anxious in public settings. A slow summer day in the backyard can be just as special as a busy one out on the town.
Enjoy Summer! We’ve Got Your Back.
Summer is a beautiful time to connect, explore, and make memories with your dog, and a little planning goes a long way toward keeping things safe, stress-free, and fun.
Whether your pup is a social butterfly who thrives on adventure or more of a backyard sunbather, there’s something for everyone in Saskatoon’s dog-friendly scene.
If you have questions about summer safety, need help with seasonal concerns (like ticks, allergies, or heat sensitivity), or just want to make sure your dog is in great shape for the season ahead—we’re here for that.
📍 City Park Vet is proud to be your local Saskatoon vet, just a short walk from the river and even closer to heart.
👉 Book a visit or give us a call: we’re always happy to chat.
