We give chocolate, roses and elaborate steak dinners to our human companions on Valentine’s Day, but what about our dog companions? Except for the steak dinners (which our furry friends would definitely love), giving roses and chocolates would NOT be good ideas! Here are some fun, more appropriate ways to show our dogs just how much we love them:
Make Homemade Treats
Of course dogs love treats, and your dogs are probably given treats on a regular basis, but how about taking some extra time and making your own? There are so many different recipes online from no-bake treats, pupcakes and dog-friendly cookies where you can customize the ingredients that you know your furry friend loves. This is a simple, cost effective way to show your dog some extra love!
Plan a Doggie Playdate
If your dog loves playing with other dogs, or has a special dog friend, plan a doggie playdate. This playdate could include extra playtime together at your house or at the dog park, or, asking your dog’s best friend and their human on a lunch outing at a dog-friendly cafe. Your furry friend will enjoy this special time with friends.
Take a Long Walk
Plan time to take an extra long walk with your dog today, or, you can take him on an extra walk – what a surprise! Your dog’s mental stimulation is improved with dog walking and walking is always a great time to bond with your dog. If the weather’s warm enough, you could even go hiking with your dog. What a great way for your furry friend to get exercise, have fun, and be with his human companion.
Give Dog-Appropriate Valentine’s Day Gifts
Since you can’t give your dog flowers or chocolates, why not consider a new toy, leash/collar, or bedding? In fact, you could even make them a new toy from items you probably already have around your house. This is also a good time to check/replace your dog’s ID tags to be sure they are still legible. You could also allow your dog to “choose his own new toy”, by taking him shopping at a pet supply store. They may not understand the reasoning for your gifts, however, they’ll still love it since it came from you!
Plan a Dog “Date Night”
Maybe you want to have a relaxing evening at home with your dog? You can always curl up on the couch with your furry friend enjoying a good dog movie. Since we all have such busy schedules, sometimes it’s nice to just slow things down and enjoy some precious time together. Your dog will love some extra snuggle time with his favorite human.
Schedule a Dental Checkup
Even though your dog may not enjoy going to the veterinarian, since February is National Pet Dental Month, this may be a good time to consider having a dental check-up for your dog. You can have your vet show you how to properly brush your dog’s teeth, and also purchase some special dog toothpaste to use. By getting your dog on a regular dental routine, you can potentially add up to two years to their life expectancy.
Plan Some Dog Pampering
Not every dog enjoys being groomed, however, at the very least, you can give your dog a good brushing or a quick bath. There are many grooming options available, like do-it-yourself facilities in pet stores, specialty grooming salons, and even mobile grooming that comes right to your house. Another pampering idea is to give them a doggy massage. Dog massages can reduce stress and anxiety, increase circulation, decrease pain, and strengthen the bond between you and your dog…making it the perfect Valentine’s Day activity!
Share Your Dog Love With Others
In this wonderful world of social media, it’s so easy to share photos and stories of our wonderful pets. Be sure to share the love you have with your special dog by posting your cute photos and stories on your social media site of choice. Who knows….this may even tempt others to adopt a pet?
Happy Doggy Valentine’s Day
Your dog has no idea what Valentine’s Day is – to them, it’s just another wonderful day spent with their favorite person. However you plan to spend your Valentine’s Day, it’s the perfect time to honor the unconditional love our pets give us all year long!
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