Fun Valentine’s Day Ideas for Pets

When most of us think of Valentine’s Day, we think of romantic love.  However, the day can also be embraced to show appreciation and affection for others in our lives, including our furry loved ones. For decades, exchanging Valentine’s cards and pieces of candy with kids at school has been a “thing” to honor friendship.  As we get older, February 14th shifts to being a day to celebrate romance with a cute date, boyfriend or girlfriend, or a spouse.   Why not incorporate our beloved fur babies into our Valentine’s festivities?   It is both entertaining and adorable to parallel human Valentine traditions with our pets.

One of the first things we consider in preparing for Valentine’s Day is what to wear… for a big date or simply to highlight the day.  Shades of reds and pinks are a given.  Patterns incorporating hearts, flowers and cupids are indicative of the holiday.  Adorning our pets in festive regalia or human coordinating collars and harnesses is charming.

When we think of traditional valentine’s gifts - flowers, candy, cards, and jewelry are the first to come to mind.  Other common gifts include heart-embellished attire, spa packages, and nights on the town.  A perfect pet parallel gift is holiday themed and blinged-out collars and garb.  Other ideas include doggie spa trips, gourmet pet treats, or a trip to the park.  Just remember to stay away from the chocolate.

Probably the gift pets love the most is a special meal, no candlelight needed.  Feline affection can easily be bought with a dish of albacore tuna or freshly boiled chicken.  Fido will dance for joy if offered a steak dinner.   Speciality treats from a dog (or cat) bakery make the perfect desert.  Take time to search for treat and meal recommendations from Veterinarian approved organizations such as the American Kennel Club to make sure your offering is a healthy choice for your pet.

Make time for “us time” with your pet.  Instead of going to a theater, stream a movie on the sofa with your fur baby. Instead of watching a game, play fetch with your dog. As for a walk on the beach or a picnic in the park?  Both are great ideas for both human and pet valentines!  Sharing quality time with someone, human or otherwise, builds a strong and lasting connection.

Valentine’s Day is a celebration of all kinds of love and friendship.  While many of us look forward to sharing the holiday with the special someone in our lives, it’s important not to overlook our loyal and loving furry companions.  Afterall, the one thing a pet offers us is unconditional love.