From frozen treats and safety tips to cooling gear and patriotic accessories, this guide covers everything pets need for a safe, fun-filled summer. Whether you’re relaxing at home, exploring OKC’s favorite pet-friendly spots or celebrating the Fourth of July, these ideas help keep pets cool, comfortable and ready for the season’s adventures.
SIMPLE SUMMER TREATS
Patriotic Pup Pops
These frozen treats are a fun, dog-safe twist on a classic summer favorite, made with simple ingredients and no added sugar.
Ingredients
Blue layer:
- ½ cup blueberries
- ¼ cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
- Splash of water (as needed)
White layer:
- ½ cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
Red layer:
- ½ cup strawberries (hulled)
- ¼ cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
Optional:
- Honey (a small drizzle, only if needed and safe for your dog)
Directions
- Blend the blue layer
Blend blueberries, yogurt and a small splash of water until smooth. Spoon into molds, filling about one-third full. Freeze for 30–45 minutes, until slightly set. - Add the white layer
Spoon plain yogurt over the blue layer to fill the next third. Return to freezer for another 30–45 minutes. - Blend the red layer
Blend strawberries and yogurt until smooth. Spoon over the white layer to fill molds. - Insert sticks
Add a dog treat stick, carrot stick or straw as a handle. - Freeze until solid
Freeze for at least 3–4 hours or overnight. - Serve
Remove from molds and serve on a hot day. Expect immediate, enthusiastic approval.
Tips
- Silicone molds or small paper cups work well.
- Always use plain yogurt with no xylitol or artificial sweeteners.
- Introduce slowly if your dog isn’t used to dairy.
Purr-fect Summer Freezer Bites
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain canned chicken or tuna in water, drained
- 2 tablespoons plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon finely mashed blueberries
- 1 tablespoon finely mashed strawberries
- 1 tablespoon water or low-sodium chicken broth
Directions
- Blend the chicken or tuna with yogurt and water or broth until mostly smooth.
- Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
- Swirl small amounts of mashed blueberries and strawberries into each mold for a red, white and blue effect.
- Freeze for 3 to 4 hours.
- Serve cold as an occasional summer treat.
Safety Note
Always introduce new treats gradually and avoid ingredients containing added sugar, artificial sweeteners or xylitol.
PET SAFETY TIPS
Celebrate the Fourth of July without putting pets at risk. These simple precautions can help keep the holiday fun for everyone.
Keep pets indoors during fireworks.
Even calm pets can panic during loud celebrations. Make sure dogs and cats are safely inside before fireworks begin.
Update ID tags and microchip information.
More pets go missing around the Fourth of July than almost any other holiday.
Create a quiet retreat space.
Close curtains, turn on a fan or television, and provide a comfortable area away from windows and noise.
Avoid sharing holiday foods.
Barbecue scraps, alcohol, chocolate, onions, grapes and corn cobs can all be dangerous for pets. Instead, whip up pet-safe treats for your furry friend — like our summer treat recipes!
Exercise pets before festivities begin.
A long walk or active play session earlier in the day may help reduce stress and excess energy.
Never bring pets to fireworks displays.
The noise, crowds and unfamiliar environment can overwhelm even social animals.
Watch for heat-related illness.
July temperatures can quickly become dangerous. Always provide shade and fresh water during outdoor activities.
Keep glow sticks and sparklers away from pets.
These items can cause burns or stomach irritation if chewed.
‘GET OUT!’ (WITH YOUR DOG)
OKC’s PET-FRIENDLY SUMMER SPOTS
Summer in Oklahoma City is better shared, especially with a dog by your side. Across the city, pet-friendly outings range from parks and walking trails to ballgames and open-air spaces.
Myriad Botanical Gardens
For pet owners looking for a relaxing summer outing, Myriad Botanical Gardens offers 15 acres of gardens, shaded walking paths and downtown scenery perfect for a stroll with a leashed dog. Many public events held on the grounds are also pet-friendly, though some exclusions apply.
Dogs are not permitted inside the Crystal Bridge Conservatory, the Children’s Garden or water features. Service animals are allowed in all areas.
The gardens also feature an enclosed off-leash dog park east of the Crystal Bridge Conservatory, giving dogs a chance to play while owners enjoy the surrounding gardens. Located downtown, Myriad Gardens is within walking distance of Scissortail Park and Bricktown, making it an easy stop during a summer day in the city.
Paseo Arts District
For a more urban summer outing, Paseo Arts District offers a walkable, pet-friendly destination filled with colorful galleries, local shops and patio dining. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout much of the district, making it a popular spot for evening strolls and weekend outings.
Known for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene, the Paseo comes alive during First Friday Gallery Walks and other community events, when many visitors bring their dogs along to explore. With shaded sidewalks, outdoor seating and plenty of people-watching, it makes an easy summer stop for owners and their pets.
RIVERSPORT OKC
For pet owners looking to add a little adventure to their summer outings, RIVERSPORT OKC welcomes dogs at its riverside recreation area along the Oklahoma River. The property includes a fenced dog park with separate spaces for small and large dogs, and pets must remain leashed outside the park.
RIVERSPORT also offers dog-friendly kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals, allowing dogs to join owners on the water for floating adventures along the river. Dogs participating in water activities are required to wear life jackets.
RED, WHITE & COOL GEAR
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with festive summer finds from Hollywood Feed. From cooling gear to patriotic accessories and playful toys, these picks help pets stay comfortable and ready for every summer adventure.
Huxley & Kent Liberty Bow Tie
$6.99
Lightweight and easy to attach, the Liberty bow tie adds a festive touch for Independence Day celebrations. Whether on a dapper dog or a stylish kitty, the patriotic accessory is sure to stand out almost as much as the fireworks.
Huxley & Kent Dog Toys – Pawtriot Cone and Stars & Stripes Heart
$13.99–$15.99
Bring a little patriotic fun to playtime with the Pawtriot Cone and Stars & Stripes toys. Designed with squeakers, crinkle material and reinforced plush construction for added durability, these festive toys help keep dogs entertained through summer celebrations and backyard gatherings.
Mississippi Made Mini Star Collar & Leash Set
$18.99–$24.99
Crafted from repurposed cotton fabric, the Mississippi Made Mini Star collar and leash pair combine comfort, durability and everyday practicality with a clean, classic look. The soft, breathable material helps reduce irritation, while heavy-duty hardware and a lifetime guarantee make them built for real-world wear and tear.
GF Pet Dog Life Jacket
$39.99–$59.99
Designed for safety on the water, the GF Pet life jacket offers high buoyancy, adjustable straps and reflective detailing for visibility. Comfortable and secure, it’s ideal for swimming, boating and other water adventures — giving pet owners peace of mind while dogs enjoy the fun.
GF Pet Elasto-Fit Ice Vest
$37.99–$52.99
Help dogs beat the summer heat with the GF Pet Elasto-Fit Ice Vest, a lightweight cooling vest made with an ice-cooling net and ultra-absorbing fabric designed to keep pets comfortable for up to six hours. No chemicals or electricity needed — just wet, wring and wear.
Pure and Natural Pet Organic Paw Rescue Balm
$17.99
This USDA-certified organic balm is designed to protect and soothe dry, cracked paws and noses. Made with nourishing ingredients like beeswax, calendula and plant oils, it helps create a protective barrier against hot pavement while hydrating and healing rough pads.
Messy Mutts Insulated Pet Water Bottle (20 oz)
$34.99
Durable, BPA-free and travel-friendly, this water bottle is ideal for keeping dogs cool and hydrated during summer outings and hot pavement adventures. Its stainless steel, double-walled insulation with a built-in flip-up silicone bowl makes for easy on the go hydration.
Poochie Butter All-Natural Calming Peanut Butter for Dogs (4 oz)
$9.99
Fireworks, house guests and crowded gatherings can all be stressful for dogs, but this squeezable, all-natural peanut butter treat helps them stay calm and focused during high-energy holiday moments.
