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By Tari Kern, DVM, CCRP, CVMA, CVSMT

Fun ways to show your pets your love…

Loving your pets doesn’t need to involve feeding our pets treats.  In this blog we look at fun ways to show our pets love.

Schedule Play Time

Life gets busy, but who loves us more than our pets and unconditionally too.  Setting aside time to enjoy each other’s company is a win-win!  It’s good for both of you!

Provide Mental Stimulation

We are the biggest source of mental stimulation for our pets – good or bad.  Make it good!  When we leave the house, we have plenty of opportunities to experience new things.  Our pets rely on us to provide mental stimulation.  This is especially important because bored pets may find their own ways to explore and potentially act out.  Mentally stimulated pets are happy and relaxed and don’t destroy the furniture!

• Make up games to play with your pets – hide-n-seek; let them search for treats, toys or you
• Teach them a new trick
• Vary your walk often – leads to new sights, sounds and scents…and maybe new friends!
• New toys – puzzle games, interactive toys, new sounds, new textures
• Be creative – your pet won’t care if it seems silly, they just want your time!
• Laugh and have fun – it is good for everyone’s souls!

Creature Comforts

Get a fuzzy new bed or a cuddle blanket to share.  Besides, after a while, the pet smell is really baked into the old bedding!

Healthy Treats

We are all trying to be more health conscious these days, so try some new treats for your pets.  However, be careful NOT to add extra calories in the day.  Remember to offset any extra calories with more activity.  Moderation is the key!

Spa Time

Spend time relaxing with your pet and give them some well-deserved massage time.  Provides a great bonding opportunity too.  Brushing = love!

Seasonal Activities

Look into seasonal activities that you can enjoy with your pet – perhaps snowshoeing, cross country skiing, hiking in the woods, swimming in warmer weather, jogging, etc

Pet Friendly Travel

Many vacation destinations allow you to bring your pet along with you.  Do your research first and always consider if your pet would actually find this appealing.  If not, make arrangements that are best for them!

Fitness & Conditioning

A healthy core helps everyone get the most out of their day.  Check into fitness and conditioning care for your pet.  A fit pet can do more activities with you and will live longer and more comfortably.  Call us on this one – we can help!

P.S. Don’t forget regular veterinary care along the way.  Preventative medicine is always better than dealing with problems later!