Most of us place a lot of value on family traditions this time of year, like caroling, making gingerbread houses, or binging holiday movies together. In fact, we often strive to top our experience from the previous year! The point is, making holiday memories is fun and important.
Since it’s natural to want to get the whole family involved, holiday pet traditions are becoming more and more popular among pet owners. Looking for some ideas for your own two- and four-legged loved ones? You’re in luck!
Holiday Pet Traditions that Stand the Test of Time
The team at Berkeley Veterinary Center is happy to recommend the following holiday pet traditions that will keep you and your pet coming back for more each and every year:
- Cruisin’ – Pets and people alike enjoy walking or driving around looking at Christmas lights. Whether they’re solid or twinkling, white or rainbow-colored, coasting around the neighborhood together is a wonderful holiday tradition.
- Santa – Nothing says Christmas like standing in line waiting to see the big man. In fact, there are lots of cheerful Santas out there willing to pose with pets (and their owners!).
- Shopping – Amazingly, lots of stores not only welcome pets, but cater to them, as well. You can get some shopping done while in the company of your best four-legged friend. Win-win!
- Treats – Baking is an obvious mainstay of the holidays, so why not include a couple pet-tastic recipes this year? Your pet can even help you in the kitchen as your trusty taste-tester! If you need any DIY pet treat recipes, please let us know!
- Parties – People gather this time of year for cookie exchanges and gift swaps. Why not host a pet-centered holiday party? Invite your closest pet friends (i.e., your friends who also have pets), and watch as the festivities unfold. You can even serve the delicious pet treats we mentioned earlier at your party!
- Sharing – Pet owners are typically very generous and giving, especially when it comes to pets in need. Even if you aren’t able to adopt another pet, you can still give back by fostering, sponsoring a pet, donating items, or volunteering your time.
- Fun and games – Winter can really diminish your pet’s interest in outdoor exercise, but one of the best holiday pet traditions involves going outside together. Weather permitting, arrange a game of pet football or a race between pets and their owners. Just be sure to outfit your pet with proper gear before heading outside.
- Stockings – If you’re like the millions of other pet owners out there, you probably already have a holiday stocking for your pet. Be sure to fill it with goodies, toys, and treats just for them to enjoy in the coming weeks and months.
- Snuggles – Of all the holiday pet traditions out there, snuggling is probably one of the best and easiest ideas on the list. Be sure to carve out some quiet time with your pet, and let them know how much they’re loved!
Pet Gift Ideas
Want to include your pets on your gift giving list this year? Here are a few ideas of pet gifts ideas to keep them happy and healthy all year long:
- Pet Insurance – Make sure your pets are prepared for an emergency by signing them up for pet insurance!
- Microchip – Microchips are an easy, excellent gift for the holidays that can be implanted quickly at our office. If you pet is not already microchipped, consider getting one for them to put your mind at ease to greatly increase your chances of reuniting with your pet if they are ever lost. If they are microchipped, make sure their information is up-to-date!
- Dental Care – Maintaining your pet’s healthy teeth and gums will ensure a lifetime of health and happiness for your pet! Since dental health can greatly impact your pet’s overall health and longevity, it is important to establish a dental care routine.
- Parasite Prevention – Flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives would make a great gift for your pet! It is important to keep your pet protected year-round.
- Exercise – Keep your pet fit this winter by engaging in some exercise activities. Not only is it a great chance to bond and spend time with your pet, but a few extra minutes of playing tug-of-war or chasing your pet around is a simple, inexpensive way to keep them healthy and active.
It’s easy to assume that animals can’t understand or appreciate the holidays like we do. However, as long as pets are with their favorite people (that’s you!), they’ll undoubtedly enjoy this bright, sparkly, happy time of year.
If you have any questions about your pet’s wellness, please let us know. From all of us at Berkeley Veterinary Center, we wish you and your family a happy holiday season!
Tags: Holiday Pet Food, Holiday Pet Safety, Pet Gift Guide, Pet-friendly Holidays