I don't know about you but I've come to the point in my life where cocktails just don't serve me (even when they're being served to me). And although I sometimes crave that lively buzz, the truth is that syrups, sugary-alcohol and sunshine are a lethal combination.

If you haven't reached the age where trauma and poor food decisions are dictating your current habits then GOOD FOR YOU *snap snap snap* just know it may not always be this way and you might want to have a thirst quenching, sweet beverage to enjoy that doesn't result in a headache, stomach ache and a lot of moaning on the couch (although we all love a good moan on the couch, don't we?).

If that doesn't hook you, the bonus of having a mocktail is that you can make it to suit your pup as well so you're both getting a fresh dose of cold, nourishing local fruits and herbs to pair with a hot day.

Here in Ontario raspberries and watermelons are stepping onto the scene so I figured what better way to highlight these gorgeous dog friendly seasonal fruits than by incorporating them in this recipe? And THE BEST PART? Is that it's actually beneficial to enjoy in the sunshine! Why you ask? Because the more sunlight a food can store the more nutritious it is! 

And for anyone concerned about the sugar in watermelon, I'll let you in on a secret- unless your dog is diabetic in which case they shouldn't be partaking in any of these kinds of sweet treats- watermelon, although higher in natural sugars, also has a lot of water, fiber and vitamins. As well, although watermelon has a higher glycemic index, it has a low glycemic load so it's less likely to spike your blood sugar the way something like a banana or date would. So throw your cares aside, get your blender ready and enjoy this delicious nutrient dense indulgence with your pupper to beat the heat.

INGREDIENTS (for 2 hoo-man servings and 1 pupper)

• 2 cups watermelon (optional to freeze)
• 1 cup frozen raspberries
• 1/4 cup filtered water
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 cup of crushed or cubed ice
• lime slices to garnish (for yourself not your pup)
• fresh mint to garnish **

Throw watermelon, raspberries, water, ice and lime juice into your blender (toss in some mint too if you wanna give it a breath blasting punch), blend until smooth and garnish (for you and for pup). Charge it up in the sun, pour some into your doggos bowl, sip and relax.

*If you're not already growing your own mint it's super easy to care for, great on a windowsill or outdoors and perfect for teas, tinctures and decorating drinks like these ones! Happy sipping y'all.