‘Tis the season for sharing delicious indulgences, gift-giving, spending time with loved ones, and cozying up from the winter chill. It’s truly a most joyful time of year as we celebrate the holidays together, and there are so many ways you can extend these beautiful moments to more fully involve your pet.
Beyond simply gifting them lots of exciting new treats and toys to play with, make a point to really engage all of their senses through more one-on-one time this season. As pet parents, we already know that play and exercise are essential to their overall well-being, but they also require those small often overlooked moments that everyone else craves when it comes to fully stimulate emotional bonds and interactions.
So, help ensure your little four-legged buddies don’t go stir crazy this season as you work your way through all of those hectic holiday plans.
Let this holiday season be all about slowing down and taking those extra moments to bond and share the love. Here are just a few ways you can do just that for a more rewarding experience together:
- See the Holiday Lights – Who doesn’t enjoy getting out to see some fabulous holiday decorations? Just like us, our pets love the stimulation of seeing all of the fun, twinkling lights that adorn the surrounding towns and neighborhoods. So, don’t leave them home this year. Bring them along with the rest of the family to experience the simulated winter wonderland. Enjoy the cooler air in the evenings, and turn it into a walking tour of lights.
- Spend More Time Outside – While it’s still warm, even hot, out these days, the evenings are much cooler and more enjoyable. So, throw in an extra walk or play session with your furry friend after dinner. Burning off a little extra energy is healthy for everyone, plus it will keep your pet calm while you continue prepping your home for holiday guests.
- Host a Friend – Whether you’re planning a big holiday gathering or something more intimate with a friend and their pet in the backyard, hosting get-togethers is a wonderfully fun way to socialize your pet and ensure they too are feeling the love this holiday season. To make the event even more special, consider asking your pet-loving guests to bring a little pet-friendly treat they can share with your favorite four-legged companion. This way, they don’t feel left out as the humans feast, and they’ll have a nice distraction so they don’t feel the need to wreak havoc on your party setup. It’s fun for everyone!
- Participate in Community Events – This time of year, our community hosts all sorts of exciting holiday events. And, many are pet-friendly, complete with pet-specific activities and designated play areas. Just grab your local paper or head online to see all of this year’s celebratory listings. Community events are a great opportunity for both you and your pet to socialize with others while getting in the holiday spirit!
This season is all about giving and spreading the love. So, make sure your pet is feeling the joy and spirit of the holidays just like everyone else. Trust us, their appreciation will make the season all the more enjoyable and fulfilling for all.