As the dog days of summer approach, it's time to think of ways to enjoy the season with man's best friend.

Mercury Chicago's Skyline Cruiseline's answer to fun summertime activities with your pooch is its annual canine cruise, running July 12 through Sept. 27.

The season kicks off 7 p.m. June 25 with a benefit cruise for The Anti-Cruelty Society of Chicago.

Regular cruises then begin July 12 and sail at 10 a.m. Sundays.

"We designed this cruise as simply something for area residents to do on a Sunday morning. It's a different way to see the city," said Holly Agra, owner of Mercury Chicago's Skyline Cruiseline.

Agra said they offered a pet-themed benefit cruise in the '90s and liked it so much they decided to present a regular season of canine cruises in 2002.

A dog owner herself, Agra is aware people are always looking for recreational opportunities for their pets.

"It just seems there are so few places that you can bring your dog," she said.

On canine cruises, guests sail for 90 minutes along both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Humorous and historical commentary is offered by captains and hosts aboard the vessel. Sites seen while cruising include Navy Pier, the John Hancock Center, Museum Campus and the Merchandise Mart.

While key architectural sites are pointed out, hosts also add a bit of dog-friendly information about the city, Agra said. One of Mercury's longtime captains, Ben Hirsch, of Chicago's Hegewisch neighborhood, regularly mans the boat.

This year, in addition to the sailing adventure, Mercury has collaborated with Cyrano's Riverside Cafe, which features special menus for dogs and their human companions.

Chef Didier Durand of Cyrano's developed the unique menu to appeal to furry friends. Items include beouf a la jerky, white rice croquettes, bone marrow gateau, root vegetables and ribs and strips.

"I tried to have different flavors and textures from soft to crunchy," Durand said.

The four-course menu costs $5 for dogs accompanied by human diners, of course.

Durand said he tested the dog treats on his two French poodles.

"They are my best critics," he said.

On the cruise itself, treats are available and bowls of water are offered. A "newspaper restroom" is also featured.

Cruise personnel ask that all sailing dogs be well-behaved and leashed. No cats or other animals are allowed.