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One of the best parts of having a dog is spending quality time together, enjoying each other’s company. Whether going on a faraway adventure or simply snuggling on the couch, these memorable moments are what make caring for a pet so worthwhile. There’s almost nothing you can’t do to enjoy your dog when time is on your side—which is why we appreciate Seresto®, an innovative flea and tick collar that gives your best friend eight months of flea and tick protection. We’ve come up with eight things you can do together in that span of time.

1. Train your dog to jump rope

You won’t need eight whole months to train your dog to jump rope, but this isn’t one of those tricks you teach in an afternoon. Training your pooch takes time and dedication, but the end result is well worth it. Chances are, your dog already knows how to jump, and he does it whenever he wants to get into your bed and onto the couch, or any other elevated surface where he’s welcome.

To transfer that talent to jumping rope, hold a cane (or a hockey stick or pole) in front of your pup a few inches above the ground with a delicious treat on the other side. Tell him to “jump,” and he should step over it to get the reward. Slowly raise the cane higher and higher until your dog is actually jumping over it to claim the treat. Once the cane is mastered, begin using a rope tied to a flagpole or tall table leg (or any other vertical beam). Start with the rope fairly low and move it slightly higher with each successful jump.

Remember to keep it fun for your pup! Then, try swinging the rope as he jumps over it. Swing it more each time until you’re doing a complete circle. Before you know it, you’ve taught your dog how to jump rope. Keep practicing and see how many jumps he can do in a row. Praise him along the way!

2. Take your dog to a pet-friendly hotel or B&B

Many owners feel guilty for leaving their pets behind when they go on vacation. So why not bring her along for the ride? Planning a dog-friendly vacation may be easier than you think. Some simple Internet research can reveal plenty of driving-distance lodging options, a handful that actually dedicate themselves to making furry family members feel welcome with yards to run around and communal couches for cuddling. And as far as activities go, check out places with hiking, lakes, streams, or beaches—all of which are usually perfect for pooches.

3. Play hide and seek at home

If your dog knows how to “stay,” then you’re all set to play a fun game of hide and seek. Simply bring your dog to a specific part of the house, tell him to “stay,” and then go find a good hiding spot. Once you’re well concealed call out “come!” Your curious canine will start sniffing around in search for you. When he does find you, celebrate his success with praise and a treat.

4. Take your dog to the beach

Have you ever seen a dog digging in the sand or splashing in the waves? It’s one of the most satisfying ways to spend an afternoon with your pup. While summer is the obvious time to go to the shore, dogs seem to love the sand and surf year round, so don’t let some snow flurries or a little chill to the air stop you from taking a jaunt to a nearby beach. Bring a tennis ball or Frisbee and toss it into the water so your canine gets the added benefit of vigorous exercise.

5. Help protect your dog from fleas and ticks with Seresto®

Seresto® is an innovative flea and tick collar that protects your pet for eight months. It’s a non-greasy, odorless alternative for killing bugs that doesn’t require any kind of messy topical application. The easy-to-use, water-resistant collar continuously distributes active ingredients over the skin surface and is good for pups as young as seven weeks old.

6. Do a full-fledged photo shoot

Who doesn’t love taking pics of their four-legged friend? Take your snap habit one step further and plan a full-fledged photo shoot around her. Plan the photo session for early morning or late afternoon, when the sun isn’t directly overhead but there’s still plenty of natural light. Then scope out some nearby scenic locations or set up in your own backyard. Use plenty of treats and even props if you’re in the mood; good ideas include bandanas, rope toys, a brightly colored ball, blankets, chairs, a chalkboard sign (to express your hound’s innermost thoughts, of course!), and anything else playful or tongue-in-cheek funny that your dog can mess around with.

7. Run a race together

If your dog is a runner, hitting the road together for a dog-friendly race is a great way to burn off excess energy and spend quality time together. First, check with your vet to make sure your pooch can handle a race. Most are 5Ks, but not all dogs can go the distance. If you do receive the green light, then start training together! Don’t push yourselves too hard too fast, though, and always monitor your dog for signs of exhaustion such as belabored breathing and slowing down.

8. Plan a puppy party

Whether it’s her birthday party or you just want to throw a midsummer soiree, gathering all the neighborhood dogs for a pup-centric celebration is a guaranteed good time. Make sure the area is securely enclosed and be careful with food and drink around excitable pets. Toss a bunch of toys in the grass and set up plenty of drinking bowls in the shade so the dogs can frolic and play to their heart’s content.

About the author: Whitney C. Harris is a New York-based freelance writer for websites including StrollerTraffic, Birchbox, and WhattoExpect.com. A former book and magazine editor, she enjoys running (with Finley), watching movies (also with Finley), and cooking meatless meals (usually with Finley watching close by).

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