The holidays are synonymous with festive celebrations, parties, gift giving, and fun with loved ones. And since over 70% of us consider our pets to be family, it’s only natural that we want to include them in the fun, too.

If you need ideas for how to have holiday fun with pets, keep reading! Our team at The Pet’s Place Animal Hospital is sharing some safe and wonderful ways to celebrate the season together. 
 

Holiday Fun with Pets

There are many ways to get out and about with your pets, even in the wintertime here in sunny California. Check out these holiday and winter outing ideas:

• Take a festive stroll in a neighborhood to look at holiday lights

• Many tree farms welcome pets on a leash; take your dog to pick out and cut a Christmas tree

• Take an agility class with your dog

• Have a playdate at doggy day care

• Take your dog to the dog park for a winter romp

• Enjoy a hot chocolate or winter drink at your favorite dog friendly cafe or restaurant

• Play at the beach

• Shop with your pet, at pet friendly stores or outdoor malls

• Visit a nearby mall or pet store for pet photos with Santa

• Take your pet to the local holiday parade (if they are ok with crowds and loud noises)
   

Cozy Up Together

Packed schedules during the holiday season can be hectic and stressful for people and pets alike. Every so often, take an opportunity to slow down, recharge, and reconnect with those that mean the most to us – including our pets! 

• Take in a holiday movie or classic together while snuggled up on the couch

• Teach your pet a new trick

• Play indoor fetch

• Give your kitty a new wall perch

• Put on some holiday tunes and have a “dance party” with your pet

• Play feather wand tag with your cat

• Bake some yummy cat or dog treats (these can be really healthy!)
   

Keep Pets Safe At Holiday Time

However you choose to spend your holidays with your pet, make sure they are safe and healthy. A few tips to consider for holiday pet safety, either indoors, or out: 

• Make sure your pet is fully vaccinated and on parasite prevention

• Make sure they wear their collar and ID tags, and ensure their microchip is registered with your current contact information

• When going out and about, use a crate or carrier in the car for maximum safety; never leave your pet unattended in the car

• Make sure pets can’t access holiday foods that might be toxic for them

• Pay attention to decor and holiday plants that could cause a pet poisoning

• Keep gift baskets and edibles out of pets’ reach

• Keep pets hydrated, even in cooler weather
   

If you have questions about holiday pet safety or how to have holiday fun with your pet, please give us a call. And have a merry and bright holiday season!