Yay! For me, winter holidays mean no early morning alarms screaming, “Wakey, wakey.” But wait, who is nibbling on my scalp and gently patting my chin? Maybe if I roll over, they will disappear. Ha! No chance of that! Bee, my 14-year-old siamese-mix is persistent in her wake up call. She yearns to slink under the covers, in the pre-warmed cave, for our morning love-fest of scratches and purrs. I’ve got nowhere else I’d rather be!
Remember to take time during your busy holiday schedule to hang with those four-leggeds that boost you up and support you during every day of the year. These are the beings that cheer you on and bring you back to earth, and sanity, pretty dog-gone consistently. Below are some ways to honor and include your dear furry friends and, perhaps, to start some new holiday traditions!
DIY Gifts for Your Dog or Cat – a simple and heartfelt way to say “I love you, and you’re part of the family.” Remember if you’re wrapping it up, use plain or butcher paper. The foil wrap kinds are pretty, but they can make animals sick if ingested.
Christmas Cookies – When you bake a batch of Christmas goodies, whip up something special for your dog or cat. While they may not really care that their favorite biscuit or homemade treats be shaped like a Christmas tree or holiday wreath, if tree-shaped goodies feel special to you, chances are your animal will pick up on that, and it will be special for them too. These moments of connection are what the holidays are all about! Need a recipe? Click here for a really great one for dog and cat treats!
New Toys – What a great excuse to buy a new toy or two. Variety is the spice of life! While you are at it, take the time to mess around with them and their new plaything.
De-Stress Together – Escape the holiday obligations and schedule some time for just the two of you. Take your dog for a quiet walk in the park, or spend an afternoon basking in a sunshiney window with your cat. Cuddle on the couch with your bud and a good book. Slow down, hang out.
Festive Lights – Look for animal-friendly events like a tree-lighting ceremony, or go for a drive around town to check out lights and decorations with your furry love bug.
Spontaneous Silliness – Play with the package wrappings, start a game of hide-and-seek or race around with them inside or out.
Stocking for Your Furry Friend – Homemade, handmade or bought, what a grand way to include your favorite beast. You can find our favorite healthy and yummy treats in our Critter’s Choice Store online and in our Asheville NC clinic. Etsy has a great collection of handmade pet stockings. This can serve as a great source of inspiration if making your own!
Dog & Cat Friendly Holiday Parties – get a small group of animal-loving friends together and take turns hosting an animal-friendly holiday party each year. Friends + holiday fun for everyone!
Meditate With Your Buddy – If you already meditate, perhaps energetically invite your four-legged friend to join you. Be open to wherever that may take you.
Connect With Them While Away – If you are away from your sweet one, you can energetically connect with them. Click here to discover how to connect with them when you are not near.
The holiday season is a very exciting time, especially when accompanied by festivities, tradition, and loved ones. If you’re planning to share your holidays with a furry friend, review these 12 thoughtful reminders to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
Your Sunvet Animal Wellness Clinic crew and I wish you and yours a sweet and peaceful holiday season filled with licks, purrs, head-butts, spontaneous jubilation and cuddles.
