Your pet is an important member of your family, so now and then you may want to pamper your cat or dog or hamster or bird just a bit. Your pet will love you for it, and you’ll have a wonderful time seeing your animal’s excitement at a special treat. If you’re at a loss for ideas, you may try a few of these ways to pamper your pet.
Extra training might not sound like a terrific treat, but it will be for your pet because you’ll be spending more time with your animal and providing plenty of extra attention. For dogs, you might research online dog training sites for new ideas. You could simply try out a few new commands or a couple tricks. Just don’t do too much at once. You and your dog might both end up frustrated, and this is supposed to be a fun activity.
Cats are often a little more difficult to train. You’ll want to do some research about the latest techniques and have plenty of treats on hand. Other pets can be trained as well. Just gear your training to your pet’s abilities.
Playtime
Every pet appreciates playtime, so you can pamper your pet by regularly scheduling play sessions. Throw a ball for your dog in the backyard, or use a laser pointer or a feather toy to play with your cat. Your pet will get exercise, and you’ll both have fun spending time together.
Some New Toys
In fact, you might pamper your pet with a few new toys, especially if your pet really likes to play. If you have a bird, for instance, look for colorful ropes, wood blocks and puzzles that will keep your bird occupied for hours. Your hamster or gerbil might like a new tunnel or exercise wheel or a hanging chew toy. Try a puzzle cube for your dog, and fill it with tasty treats, or get a ball tower for your cat for hours of fun.
An Outing
Not every pet can go on outings, but those who can would love to be pampered by taking a little trip with you. Even a jaunt to the dog park for an hour or two of running and playing would be a blast for your dog. A car ride may also be a special treat. Many coffee shops offer pet friendly menu options these days, so you might stop for one on the way home. Just be careful. Your pet may demand a repeat performance sooner than later!
Quiet Time
Sometimes the best pampering can actually be quiet time. You’re probably a busy person who doesn’t get as much time to spend with your pet as you’d like. So schedule a little downtime in an evening or on the weekend, and simply snuggle up with your pet. You’ll get some relaxation, and your pet will love being close to you. You may even decide to make this quiet time a habit for both of you.
A Designated Spot
All pets should have a designated spot to call their own. If you have a cat, you might purchase a special bed or cat tree, but you may find that your pet prefers hiding in a box or in a closet or cupboard. That’s okay. Just provide a soft blanket, and let your cat snuggle in. Your dog may appreciate a new bed or kennel or even a special outdoor area for running and playing in the fresh air and sunshine. Whatever you decide to do, be sure that the designated spot is safe and easily accessible to you for cleaning.
A Special Food Treat
What pet doesn’t like to eat? An occasional special food treat can be a lot of fun for your pet. You might try a new brand or flavor of cat or dog treats, but you could even cook up some homemade treats using ingredients you know your pet enjoys.
While many animal experts say to avoid feeding your pet human food, a treat now and then likely will not hurt. Research the kinds of foods that are safe for animals (and know the kinds of foods that are not). Your pet may already have a favorite, or you can try something new and watch the reaction. Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions. This should be rather rare, but a little piece of turkey or chicken, a small bite of apple or banana or even a lick of yogurt won’t hurt every once in a while.
So don’t be afraid to pamper your pet. You’ll both enjoy the experience.
