Four Ways To Show Your Furry Valentine Some Love

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to express your love for the people in your life, both of the two-legged and four-legged variety.

This year more than ever, we could all use some extra love. Though many of us are still recovering from the emotional and financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the first two months of the new year have brought us hope.

We may not be able to physically connect with friends and family just yet, but hopefully we’ll see them soon. Until then, we can continue celebrating with those we’ve been quarantining with.

More likely than not, this includes your pets! You’ve celebrated Christmas, the New Year, and just about every other holiday with your dog.

Now it’s time to show your quarantine valentine some love with these four ways to treat, spoil, and otherwise love on your pet.

Have A Spa Day

There’s no better way to relax on Valentine’s Day than indulging in some TLC. This goes double for your pet, who stick by us through thick and thin.

Whether you’re looking for activities to do at home or interested in more affordable fun, this is a great option for you and your dog.

Check out the list below for some potential ways to pamper your pet:

• Bubble Bath – Treat your dog with a bubble bath using hypoallergenic shampoo with luxurious ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, almond oil, and Vitamin E. If you want a scented shampoo, try out soothing, natural scents like lemongrass or lavender.
• Massage – You’ve probably appreciated a massage or two (or more) in your day, and your dog would definitely love one! Check reputable sources to learn how and then show off your masseuse skills. Put on some mood music and you’re good to go!
• Paw Pedicure – If your dog’s paws aren’t already squeaky clean from the bubble bath, go ahead and clean them off. Then, give them a massage, trim the nails down, and rub on some paw balm. You can even paint your dog’s nails for added flair.

For an extra boost of relaxation, you can also break out the cucumbers. You can appreciate their rejuvenating effects on your eyes (goodbye puffiness and dark circles), while your dog can appreciate them as a tasty treat.

Make Your Pet A Parent

Okay, hear us out: we’re talking about honorary pet parenthood here. Many zoos and aquariums have programs where you can “adopt” one of their animals.

Generally, the programs offer different levels of financial commitment that range anywhere from $20 to over $100.

Pick which animal you and your pet would like to “adopt,” select your commitment level, and you’re done! Depending on the options you pick, you may receive items like photographs, plushies, zookeeper notes, a t-shirt, a ‘thank you’ card, or something totally unique.

No what your package includes, you can surprise your pet with:

• A picture or magnet to hang on the fridge
• An adorable plushie to cuddle with
• A t-shirt to wear on Casual Friday

And for even more fun, check with your zoo or aquarium to see if they’re pet-friendly. If they allow dogs, you can take your new pet parent to see their “adopted child.”

Pro Tip: Remember to do this at least two weeks in advance so that your package arrives by Valentine’s Day.

If your pet isn’t ready to become a parent yet, you can also simply make a donation in their name.

Indulge In Tasty Treats

Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without treating yourself— literally! Whether you’re a fan of simple fare or appreciate a four-course meal, you can recreate your favorite meals at home.

Even better, now you can enjoy these amazing flavors with your pet! Not all restaurants are pet safe, but your kitchen-turned-café certainly is.

Read through our ideas for drinks, main meals, and desserts below.

• Drinks – Whether you indulge in a mimosa, cocktail, or other drink, remember to create a pet-safe version so everyone can celebrate. Add some apples, bananas, blueberries, or mango to a cup of water for a flavored treat your pet will love.
• Meals – Despite how tasty your drinks may be, remember to save room for the main course! Turkey, chicken, lean beef, chuck steak, and roast are all meats that dogs and humans alike can enjoy.  
• Dessert – Check out your pantry to see if you have some pet-safe snacks or order a more indulgent treat. Carob “chocolate” chip cookies, doggy ice cream, special cake mixes, and even cheesecake mixes are all available now.

Dress up for dinner or keep it casual. Either way, you and your dog are sure to enjoy whatever deliciousness you cook up or order in.

Add a candle or two for ambiance and you’ve got a setup that can rival any five-star restaurant. (Just remember to put the candles out of paw’s reach.)

Create DIY Valentines

Perhaps most iconic and essential to this holiday is the Valentine’s Day card itself. They come in all shapes, sizes, colors— enough to fill entire aisles.

You can find a card for anyone you want to show some love and appreciation to, from your family member to a friend to a co-worker and more.

If you’re the crafty type, try making your own Valentine’s cards this year.

• Dress Up – Treat your pup with an adorable costume or outfit to prepare for their valentine debut. Pick out a dapper bowtie, a striking dress, or cheese it up with a hilarious costume. Either way, your pet is sure to look their best.
• Photo Fun – Using your phone or any camera you have around the house (polaroids are still all the rage!) take some shots of your pup. Au natural, glamour shots, comedy gold—anything goes!
• Send Some Love – Upload your photos to send e-valentine’s to you and your dog’s friends and family. If you appreciate a handmade card, you can also print out the photos and use materials around the use to create DIY valentine’s cards and envelopes.

Everyone who receives your homemade Valentine’s cards are sure to love them, especially since they feature someone as cute as your pup.

Remember to create one for yourself, as well. You’ll sure to want to remember this Valentine’s Day for years to come.