Fall season is upon us. It’s time to break out the pumpkin cakes and apple cider, and plan an itinerary of all your favorite fall activities. Corn mazes are one of the most popular events for the fall season, and many towns have at least one within driving distance.
It can be a fun day trip for the entire family, with multiple activities, fall fare, seasonal produce, treats, pumpkin patches and more! Enjoy picking your own pumpkin and countless activities for the kids this fall season.
But what about your dog-kids? They shouldn’t be excluded from such fun fall activities. Will they enjoy going on outings to a corn maze? Will they even be welcome, or will they have to stay in the car all alone while the rest of the family has a good time?
It’s good to know all the facts beforehand in order to plan a trip that’s fun for everyone, including your furry family members.
Do Corn Mazes Allow Dogs?
Most corn mazes are at farms, and every farm will have its own set of rules and guidelines, so it’s best to check online or call ahead before packing your furry friend in the car. Many farms with corn mazes may only allow service animals, but plenty of others are designed specifically to include all family members.
What About Wagons?
Some farms require wagon rides to get to the corn maze, and some have wagon rides available as an additional activity. Be sure to check out which activities you may want to do and what the rules are for each activity, so you’re not caught off guard wanting to ride in a wagon that doesn’t allow dogs.
It’s no fun having to trek back to the car to leave poor Fido or having to miss out on some fun.
What if They Have a Pumpkin Patch?
Corn mazes and pumpkin patches often go hand-in-hand, so farms often have both activities available. It’s likely that a farm that allows pets will have the same rules for both, and there are numerous farms that allow pets in their pumpkin patches.
Again, be sure to double-check the farm’s website or give them a call to make sure you don’t end up with any last-minute disappointments after a long drive.
Will My Dog Enjoy the Corn Maze?
Every dog is different, and whether or not your dog will enjoy visiting a corn maze will depend on its personality and level of training. Corn mazes can be filled with a variety of activities like petting zoos, horses and wagons, train rides , shouting children, and other pets.
Is It Safe?
Your dog will be in a new environment, and will be eager to explore, sniff, and check out everything he notices. Be sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccines for any spreadable doggy diseases, and has flea and tick protection.
Carefully monitor what your dog is investigating and make sure he doesn’t eat anything he isn’t supposed to. With that in mind, bring safe doggy treats for your furry baby as well, and avoid the temptation of sharing any goodies you may purchase at the farm (unless they are specifically designed for dogs, of course).
What About the Crowds?
Some dogs are not yet trained enough to participate in crowded venues, and some that are well-trained and used to crowds may still not enjoy it.
Corn mazes can often be crowded, and even pet-friendly ones may be filled with people and other pets, some of which may not be well-trained enough to attend. You know your dog’s personality enough to determine whether or not such an event will be stressful to him.
Has Your Dog Been Around Children?
There will be children at the event. How does your dog react if children run up to him and want to pet him? Will he get scared? Will he bite? Or does he love the attention?
Being nervous around children does not necessarily omit you from taking your doggy buddy to events. You’ll just have to be on your guard to warn anyone that comes running up to keep their distance or use cautious movements when petting.
How Does Your Dog Get Along With Other Animals?
A good indication of whether or not your dog should go with you to a corn maze is how well he does at a dog park. Does he play well with other dogs, or does he growl, bark, or act aggressive?
Have you noticed his behavior around other animals? Keep in mind there may be horses and petting zoo animals. Will he be calm or will he want to chase them? If he’s a social butterfly and loves every person and animal, he may really enjoy visiting a corn maze.
How Do I Know if I Should Take My Dog?
Taking your dog to a corn maze can be a fun and memorable experience for both you and your furry friend. Use these guidelines when considering whether or not your dog is ready to visit a corn maze. Your dog may be ready for this grand fall adventure if he:
1. Is well-trained, responds easily and well to you and others
2. Doesn’t get nervous in new and unusual situations
3. Enjoys social situations and new adventures
4. Doesn’t mind other animals
5. Is leash-trained
Some things to keep in mind when checking out the farm you want to visit are:
· What are their exact requirements?
· What do you need to bring for your pet?
· Will they have pet-friendly amenities? Water stations? Spots for bathroom breaks? Places to put poop-bags?
Remember to keep your dog on its leash at all times, bring plenty of poop bags, favorite treats, and water and a bowl, and don’t forget the adorable fall doggy costume!
Then, just load up the car and get ready for an amazing, fun, fall adventure at your favorite pet-friendly corn maze!