Five easy ways to show your pet extra love
Pets are more than just animals; they’re more than accessories. They’re beloved members of our families. We love our dogs and cats’ companionship and unconditional love. Amidst the chaos in our lives, we may sometimes forget to give our best furry friends a little extra love and remind them how much we cherish them.
In honor of World Gratitude Day, here are some ways to appreciate your furry bestie a little more.
- Pet Pampering: Spa Treatment for You and Your Pet
We all deserve a bit of pampering — whether that being a day off from work or retail therapy — it’s important to note our pets are no exception. Consider setting aside some quality time for a spa day with your furry friend. Gather all the essentials, like grooming tools, pet-friendly shampoos, and maybe even some soothing music. Giving your pet a relaxing bath, brushing their fur, and trimming their nails can be a bonding experience that leaves both of you feeling refreshed. Some of this may be harder for others so in those cases — a little peanut butter treat goes a long way in keeping your dog or cat happy during your spa session.
Finish your spa session with some coconut oil. Our pets deserve a final touch to seal in the freshness of their relaxation treatment by soothing any itches and softening their fur.
It's not just about hygiene but also about the connection you share during this special time.
- Dates: Explore Outdoor Adventures Together (sorry, Dogs only for this one)
One way to show your dog some extra love is to plan exciting outdoor activities together. Taking walks has also been a given, so let’s elevate the time spent together outdoors. Beyond the usual walks, consider taking your pet with you to various outdoor settings. Go shopping at pet-friendly stores, have a picnic at the park, or dine at a pet-friendly restaurant. Maybe consider talking your dog-walks to the dog park! There, your pet can meet and make new friends!
These outings allow your pet to experience new environments and socialize, deepening your bond while making every moment an adventure.
Consider documenting these experiences, maybe create a pet Instagram account to connect with other pet-parents. That way, you’re also making new friends too, for you and your pet!
- Playdates: Furry Besties Need Friends Too
Just like humans, pets thrive on companionship. Consider organizing playdates with other pets in your community. This not only gives your pet the chance to interact with their furry counterparts but also provides you with the opportunity to connect with fellow pet owners. Whether it's a romp at the local dog park or a playdate at home, these interactions enrich your pet's life and create lasting memories.
Consider pet-friendly cafes that give you and your pet bestie what you need. If you’re ever in the area, “Mutts + Munch” in Ventura, CA is a great brunch option. Though a doggy-daycare-brunch combo, you and your dog can both enjoy a cappuccino, “mutticino,” and/or “puppicino” — all in one place! Maybe you’ll get the chance to see another pet graduate in their training.
Another great option in the Los Angeles area is Muddy Paw Coffee. It’s not an ordinary coffee shop; rather, it’s an elevated coffee outing for you and your pet. Maybe you wanted to work out of the office today, and Muddy Paw Coffee lets your dog make friends in the play area while you enjoy your latte.
- New Pet Treats: Trying Something New
Variety is the spice of life, even for our pets. Surprise your furry companion with a selection of new treats and snacks. Experiment with different flavors and textures, and pay attention to their preferences. You might discover a new favorite snack that adds excitement to mealtime.
Just remember to ensure that any treats are safe and suitable for your pet's specific dietary needs. Be sure to check out @thebkpets, @honestkitchen, and @yummerspets on Instagram for snack sourcing tips and guides. (And these don’t exclude our kitty friends!)
- More Toys: Enriching Their Playtime
Toys are not just for play; they're also tools for mental and physical stimulation. Invest in a few new toys to keep your pet engaged and entertained. Puzzle toys, interactive feeders, and chew toys can help reduce boredom and prevent destructive behavior. Regularly rotating your pet's toys can make their playtime more interesting and enjoyable.
Our pets give us so much love and joy, and it's only fair that we reciprocate by showing them some extra appreciation. These refined ideas, from spa days to outdoor adventures, playdates, new treats, and a variety of toys, can help you strengthen the bond with your furry friend and make their life even more fulfilling.
If your pet may need to learn discipline, perhaps try an easy puzzle like the Outward Hound Hide N' Slide. That way, your pet learns to contain frustration and aggression by figuring out how to get to their kibble! For cats, consider the KONG Puzzlements Pockets Cat Toy. Cats can enjoy puzzles too, and they’ll definitely entertain themselves with this interactive experience without straining themselves.
Remember, the key is to cherish every moment you spend with your pet, as they bring immeasurable happiness into our lives. So, go ahead and give your pet a little extra love today – they'll undoubtedly wag their tails in approval!
