Ways to show appreciation to your pet this Thursday

20 February is celebrated as Love Your Pet Day. It is where you get to spoil that furry friend who has always been by your side and cheers you up when you are feeling down. This Thursday you can show how much they mean to you by doing something special for them. Revive the bond between your pet and yourself.

Pets react differently to how you treat them, a day out with them or getting them their favorite treat would make them appreciate you even more.

“While, as most pet parents would agree, we don’t need just one day to celebrate the love we have for our pets, there’s something special about an unofficial ‘holiday’ dedicated to our fur babies. Plus, there are ways to ‘spoil’ your pet this Love Your Pet Day that won’t break the bank; extra cuddles, treats and longer walks to name a few,” explains Marycke Ackhurst pet behaviour expert from Hill’s Pet Nutrition.

Ackhurst elaborates on how you can show your pet more love this Love Your Pet Day by taking note of the following suggestions or gifts:

Spa day – Just like we feel we have a new lease on life with a fresh hair cut or new style, the same goes for our pets. How about a day at the spa for your pooch? Take your dog to the parlor; there they’ll bath him, dry him, brush him and trim his nails. While most cats won’t take as kindly to a spa day, why not give your kitty a nice, relaxing brush at home?

New threads – Does your dog need a new leash and collar? How about a shiny new ball? Or bandana? Perhaps, your cat needs a new toy mouse or some catnip? Gifting your pet with something new is a great way to celebrate them.

Walk and play – One of the best ways to spend time with your dog is by playing and exercising with him. Go for a long walk, stop at the park and play some catch. Why not, instead of your usual walking route, head to the beach if you live by the seaside or try a new park if you’re inland. Cats love playing games too; any feathery toys, scratch posts, or even a good, old box, will bring out the kitten in them and expend any pent-up energy.

The gift that keeps on giving – While your pet may not need it, or necessarily benefit from it now, pet insurance such as dotsure.co.za, is truly a gift that keeps on giving. So, if a rainy day comes, that no pet parent likes to think about, and you’ll have peace of mind your pet is covered.

Volunteer at your local pet shelter – You don’t have to have a pet to love pets. Why not celebrate Love Your Pet Day by visiting a nearby animal shelter? Spend time with the dogs and cats looking for their forever home as well as the volunteers who support them. It will make you, and them, feel good.

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