Valentine's Day is when you show the people you care about just how much you love them. But what about your four-legged friend? Your fur baby means everything to you, so it's understandable that you want to figure out the best ways to celebrate Valentine's Day with your pet.
Make some tasty homemade dog treats, buy your cat their favorite food, or go on a fun outing with your pooch on Valentine's Day. Find a dog-friendly restaurant and treat yourself and your pup to a relaxing meal. If you prefer to stay in, snuggle up on the couch for a movie and give your pet a well-deserved belly rub.
There are many ways to show your pet how much you love them on Valentine’s Day. It all depends on which one you think your dog or cat will love the best.
Valentine's Outings with Your Pet
If you’re planning to spend your Valentine’s Day out and about, you don’t have to leave your pet at home. Bring your furry friend along to spend some time together. Whether picnicking in the park, taking a walk, or checking out local stores, your pet will adore being with you.
1. Go for a Scent Walk
Take your dog (or cat) for a walk, and don’t rush it. Let your pet explore and smell and sniff. When your pet gets to investigate and has the time to process all of this new information, it provides wonderful mental stimulation. You might even find that after your stroll, your pal’s more tired and relaxed than they are after a regular walk.
2. Take Your Pet on a Shopping Spree
It’s time to go shopping! Why not bring your dog with you and let them pick out a special toy or sample some treats? Just make sure your pup is well-behaved and only go to dog-friendly stores. You might even be able to bring your cat with you to a few places if you have a cat stroller or carrier. If you’re unsure whether a store allows pets, check their website FAQ section, or give them a call.
3. Have a Picnic with Your Pet
If the weather is nice, head to the local park with your pet and have a picnic. Pack a lunch for yourself, your pet’s favorite snacks, and fresh water. Your cat can also enjoy a pet picnic, but you might want to keep your feline’s picnic experience in your backyard or a large catio that can fit you both.
4. Take a Valentine's Hike Together
Do you love the great outdoors? If so, hiking with your pet is a great way to spend Valentine’s Day together. Pack goodies and plenty of fresh water for the journey, and know your pet’s limits. Whether hiking with your cat or blazing a trail with your pup, check the weather first and plan your route ahead of time.
5. Check Out a Dog-Friendly Restaurant
Many cities feature an assortment of dog-friendly restaurants. Find ones near you that offer outdoor seating and call ahead to confirm that they’re pet-friendly. Often, they’ll offer a special doggy menu and provide a water dish for Fido. Of course, make sure your pet’s well-behaved in public; otherwise, you might want to pick up a pup cup to go.
Valentine's Pet Activities to Do at Home
Don’t feel like going anywhere on Valentine’s Day? Maybe the idea of staying home sounds just right to you. You can kick back, relax, stay in your PJs, and have one-on-one time with your favorite furball.
1. Bake Some Pet-Friendly Sweets
Do you fancy yourself a bit of a baker? Put your skills to the test by whipping up some delicious homemade dog treats or cat snacks. Add some cute touches for Valentine’s Day, like serving the snacks in a heart-shaped dish.
2. Cuddle Up for a Movie Marathon
If you’re spending the night in for Valentine’s Day, gather some snacks (pet-friendly ones, too) and prep for a movie marathon. Select pet-centered films, cuddle up with your pal on the couch, and relish each other’s company.
3. Pamper Your Pet
Create a pet spa at home and pamper your furry friend with a massage, grooming session (if they like that), and their favorite treats. It’s a great way to spend one-on-one bonding time with your pet, which helps strengthen your relationship and build trust.
4. Write Your Pet a Love Song or Poem
If you’re the creative type, spend some quality time with your pet writing them a poem or song. Recite or sing your masterpiece to your companion, perhaps with a belly rub thrown in for good measure.
5. Sip Some Wine (for pets, of course!)
Pour a glass of salmon oil wine infused with catnip for your feline friend, and choose your favorite vino for yourself. Toast your pet and celebrate your lives together and how much they mean to you. To make things more special, consider choosing your wine from Rescue Dog Wines. Fifty percent of the profits go toward supporting various rescue organizations.
Five Gifts for Your Pet on Valentine’s Day
Looking for a little something extra to spoil your pet? Check out these ideas for dog and cat Valentine’s gifts to make your pet purr and howl with excitement.
1. A Plush Pet Bed
Get your pet a cozy, plush pet bed where they can snuggle and cuddle in style. Personalize it with your pet’s name and place it in their favorite spot. If your dog or cat loves to burrow, add a soft blanket.
2. The Neat-Lik Mat
The Neat-Lik Mat is the perfect gift for your canine companion or feline friend. Spread on your pet’s favorite soft treat and let them lick to their heart’s content. Not only will they enjoy their tasty surprise, but licking releases endorphins which help your pet feel calm and happy.
3. A Cute Valentine’s Goody Box
Surprise your pet with a Valentine’s goody box filled with all sorts of irresistible treats and toys. Add a doggy bandana or a cute shirt or sweater if your pup likes to dress up. Your kitty might appreciate a new collar or a soft toy with a catnip surprise.
4. A Rolly-Cannoli
Fill a rolly-cannoli with peanut butter and some of your pup’s favorite treats. Your dog will love the challenge of trying to get all the yumminess from inside the toy.
5. Valentine’s Cookies for Pets
Treat your dog or cat to gourmet Valentine’s Day treats from a local pet bakery or boutique. You can also find cute treats online. Make sure you get them from a reputable source and that they only feature pet-friendly ingredients.
Valentine’s Day Is for Pets Too!
These ideas will surely inspire you to enjoy a lovely Valentine’s Day with your pet. Get creative, think outside the box, and consider your furry friend’s personality and the things they love the most. You’ll might come up with even more amazing experiences to share with your faithful companion.
And when you’re looking for extra insight into how to understand your pet and care for them the best, check out the rest of the Neater Pets blog. We’re always adding new resources and tips so you can give your pet the life they deserve.