Summer in the Inland Empire: where the sun shines bright enough to make your flip-flops sizzle and your dog’s tongue practically hit the pavement.
But here’s the good news—our four-legged best friends don’t have to hide indoors until Halloween. There are plenty of cool, joyful ways to help them beat the heat, keep those tails wagging, and maybe even star in a little summertime photoshoot of their own.
Here are my five favorite ways to keep your dog safe, happy, and living their best summer life—and a few ideas for capturing those memories in beautiful photographs you’ll cherish long after the sunscreen is packed away.
1. Take a Splash at a Dog-Friendly Pool or Splash Pad
If your pup’s the type to cannonball into puddles or dive nose-first into the sprinklers, a doggy swim session is summer magic.
Local gem Country Kennels in Murietta offers Dawg Waterpark, where pups can swim, splash, and generally pretend they’re mermaids—all in a safe environment. They even host special open swim days where dogs can mingle and paddle together.
Imagine your water-loving dog mid-leap, droplets flying everywhere—no sunburns, no wet furniture, no sand on the floor of your car. Just pure joy.
2. Visit a Dog-Friendly Brewery or Coffee House
Raise your glass—or your latte cup—to local businesses that roll out the welcome mat for canine companions.
Spots like Hamilton Family Brewery in Rancho Cucamonga, and indie coffee shops across the I.E. like Canabru in Chino, often have shady patios, dog water bowls, and the kind of relaxed vibe that makes it easy to while away a summer afternoon.
Picture your dog lounging under a patio table, tongue lolling, sun hat slightly askew—ready for their own special libations. (Non-alcoholic, of course!)
3. Explore the Early Morning Trails
There’s something magical about Inland Empire trails in the early morning. The sun peeks over the mountains, the air still carries a whisper of coolness, and your dog has endless sniffing adventures waiting.
Places like Etiwanda Falls or Claremont Hills Wilderness Park are perfect for beating the heat while enjoying nature together. Just be sure to go early in the morning, protect your doggo's pads, and bring lots of water!
Golden hour isn’t just for Instagram influencers. It’s the perfect time for outdoor photo sessions that capture your dog’s spirit against glowing sunrise backdrops—before the sun turns everything into a skillet.
4. Chill Out with DIY Frozen Treats
When the pavement’s too hot for paws, why not throw a summer “pup party” at home?
Blend up dog-safe frozen treats—think banana and yogurt pupsicles, or pureed watermelon ice cubes. Pair it with enrichment toys for maximum entertainment (and a few precious minutes of peace for you).
Sticky tongues, bright eyes, and that “brain freeze” moment? Adorable.
5. Book a Cool-as-Ice Studio Photo Session
Okay… I might be biased. But hear me out!
The summer heat can be brutal for our furry friends, especially the squishy-faced crew (I see you, Frenchies and Bostons). But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on gorgeous photos celebrating your dog’s personality.
My studio lights mean we can create cool images all in the blissful comfort of air conditioning - so we don't end up with 100 pictures of your pup's tongue hanging to the floor!
Want to remember your dog’s summer spirit, minus the sizzling sidewalks? Let’s create art together that makes your heart happy every time you see it on your wall. Whether we book a sunrise session on location, or chill out mid-day in-studio, there's no reason to put your pooch's moment in the spotlight on the back burner, even during our blistering hot IE summer!
Let’s Make Summer Memories!
Whether you’re splashing in a pool, exploring cool trails, or relaxing over a patio brew, summer is full of moments worth remembering—especially with your best friend by your side.
If you’d love to capture your dog’s sunshiny personality in beautiful, custom artwork, I’d be thrilled to chat. Let’s make some summer magic (without breaking a sweat).
Or join my VIP list to stay in the loop for specials, tips, and behind-the-scenes fun from the studio!
