14 Ways to Show Your Dog Love This Valentine’s Day

February 13, 2015

Comments

Valentine’s Day is tomorrow. TOMORROW!! Are you ready?!

Forget the flowers; forget the chocolates; forget the fancy dinner reservations. If you’ve got a dog, you’ve got the perfect Valentine and, best of all, he doesn’t care about any of that stuff. As long as he has your love, he has all that he needs. Here are 14 ways to show your dog just how much you love them this Valentine’s Day, or any day, for that matter:

1. Bake them homemade treats

What dog doesn’t love treats?! Have you ever considered making your own dog treats? It’s simple and cost-effective to do and you have absolute control over what ingredients end up (and don’t end up) in them. Here’s one of our favorite recipes and the internet is full of tons of others that your pooch will be sure to love.

2. Take them out exploring

There is so much to see and do in our city! Don’t let the cold weather hold you back. Bundle up and head out for an adventure! Check out this post from our blog archives, which talks about five super cool places in Philly to explore with your pooch.

3. Brush their teeth

Even if they hate it. It’s one of the best things you can do for their health. Most pets end up with dental disease at some point in their life, but by getting them on a regular dental routine, which includes brushing at home, you can add up to two years onto their life expectancy!

4. Set up a photoshoot:

Our pets don’t live long enough — that’s their only downfall, I think — so be sure to capture the moments you’ll want to remember forever. Set up an impromptu photoshoot with your pet. It can be staged, or candid, but should capture your pet’s true personality and interests.

5. Make a paw print casting:

This is another easy and fun way to make a memory that will last a lifetime. You can buy a kit online or from most craft stores, but it’s simple enough to make your own using a basic salt dough recipe.

6. Challenge their mind:

Dogs are among the smartest animals in the animal kingdom. Keep their minds sharp with new training routines or brain games to make them think a little harder than usual.

7. Have a playdate

Does your dog have a best bud? Invite him over for some fun!

8. Go to a dog park

A trip to the dog park is a great way for Fido to burn off some extra energy and help him work on his social skills. We should also mention that dog parks are great places to meet other dog-loving folks, too. Who knows… maybe you will meet next year’s Valentine there!!!

9. Make them a new toy

Play is such an important component to a dog’s life and they should have access to a few fun toys to keep them entertained. Toys don’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, though. In fact, you can even DIY toys out of stuff you probably already have laying around your house. Your dog will love them just as much as any fancy and expensive toy from the pet store.

10. Give them your undivided attention

Your time is the most precious gift you can give anyone and your dog would love to have your undivided attention for a few hours. Put down the phone, turn off the TV and do whatever your dog wants to do, whether that be a good snuggle on the couch or a fun game of fetch in the yard.

11. Groom them

It’s a good idea to get your hands on your dog as often as you can to check them over for lumps, bumps, bruises, scratches or irritations and grooming time is a great opportunity to do so. Learn what their normals are so you can recognize a problem as soon as it arises. And what dog doesn’t love a good brushing?!

12. Make an emergency plan

This one may not be fun, but it’s so, so important! An emergency can strike at any time, and if you’re not prepared, it can mean the difference between life and death for your pet. Check out RedRover.org for tips for creating an emergency plan that’s right for you and your pets.

13. Update their ID

The only jewelry your pet needs is a reliable ID tag. If they were ever to become lost, it’s their best chance of finding their way safely back to you. If they don’t have an ID tag, get them one. If theirs is hard to read, get them a new one. If your information has changed, update their ID. If your pet is microchipped, don’t forget to check your contact information for accuracy. ID and microchips only work when the information they contain is accurate!

14. Make a donation in their name

Of course, you love your dog, but so many other wonderful animals are not fortunate enough to know what love feels like. For those who are still waiting for their forever homes, shelters and rescues may be their only chance, and those organizations can only operate if they have adequate funding. Consider making a donation in your pet’s name and help another deserving dog get his chance.

Happy Valentines Day, everyone! Enjoy your time with your four-legged loves!!!

Related Posts

Gifts that Give Back

Gifts that Give Back

The holiday rush is here! As you’re trimming the tree, decking the halls, fa-la-la-ing and shopping ’til you drop, keep in mind that it’s not only the season of giving but of giving back, as well. If you’ve got some animal lovers on your shopping list, are on the...

Things to Think About Before Giving Thanks

Things to Think About Before Giving Thanks

Thanksgiving is next week! Eeek! Where has this year gone?! Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays and I don’t think we’re alone on that sentiment. Feasting, family, friends and fun — what’s not to love about it?! As you are preparing to gather and give thanks,...

Skip to content