Valentine's Day Activities for You and Your Dog

While Valentine's Day usually means romantic love, many people don't have a significant other to share the day with. When I found myself in this position a few years ago, I decided to refocus my celebrations on my pet. Rather than sit at home drinking too much wine, I spent the day pampering my dog. His unconditional love seemed just as much a cause to celebrate as any boyfriend I've ever had. Even now that I have a human love, I still use Valentine's Day to lavish love on the pets in my life. Need some ideas for celebrating the day of love with your dog?

Doggie Date

Spend the day doing something your dog loves. Whether that's taking a hike or visiting the local doggie deli, make it a priority to spend some quality time with your pet. The ability to make your dog one happy pooch will be a reminder of the love you share.

Prepare a Special Dinner

No, you can't share that heart-shaped box of chocolates with your dog, but you can give him a special treat. Maybe instead of his regular kibble, you can prepare a meal of boiled chicken and brown rice for your dog. Top it with some beets to get that deep pink color. He'll think he's getting spoiled, and you get the satisfaction of "sharing" a meal with the love of your life! Just make sure that if you dine by candle-light, try to use flameless candles to avoid a fire!

Give a Gift

An internet search of Valentine's Day gifts for dogs brings up a wealth of options. Ideas include plush hearts, heart-shaped dog tags, pink and red doggie coats, dresses, and beds. How 'bout a pink doggie Snuggie ? There are gift baskets and even jewel-encrusted collars for the super-spoiled pooch in your life.

Baking for Your Dog

Some people show love with cookies and chocolate-dipped strawberries. If you're the baking sort, you can whip up plenty of dog-friendly treats for the love of your life. Dogster.com has recipes for such decadent treats as Carob-Dipped Dog Cookies and Red Velvet Pupcakes.

Pet Pampering

I love a relaxing spa day, and I love it even more when it's a gift from my fiance. Why not treat your furry friend to a day of pampering? You can drop your dog off at the groomers for some beauty treatments, or take your furry friend in for a therapeutic doggie massage. What about taking a relaxing yoga class with your pooch? For the budget-conscious, try an at-home spa day with a pedicure for you and a pet-icure for your dog. Who says she doesn't want her nails painted pink?

Dog Friendly B&B

Don't have a human valentine to share the day with? Why not take a road-trip with the first love of your life? Do some research into local dog-friendly B&B's in your area. You can plan a whole weekend of activities for your and your pet. Is there a park nearby? A dog-friendly cafe or pet store? How about a dog beach? It's a vacation for you and your best friend.

Artwork

If you're the crafty sort, you can use your skills to immortalize your furry friend. You can make a paw or nose-print of your dog using pre-packaged kits available at the local craft store. Alternatively, you can use some non-toxic Tempera paint or an ink pad and some nice thick paper. Just make sure to clean your pets paws afterward! For the fancier dog-owner, you can also commission an artist to paint or sketch your dog for posterity.

Adoption Events

While it's usually not a good idea to give a pet for Valentine's day, many shelters hold adoption events promoting the love a dog or cat can give it's owner. If you're already in the market for a pet, a V-day adoption might be just the place to find love. Often these events come with reduced adoption fees or added extras to sweeten the deal.

Valentine's Day Parties

Check your local newspaper or online event list for Valentine's day events in your area. PETCO in Hingham, MA is hosting a Valentine's Day party for dogs. They advertise off-leash socializing, a picture with pet and owner, and a special dog cookie that you can decorate for your pooch. Or host one yourself! Invite other pet owners over for a play-date and meal. Make valentines, take cute pictures and revel in the love of your furry friends!

Sources:

http://thepetwiki.com/wiki/Celebrate_Valentine's_Day_with_Your_Pet

http://calendar.boston.com/hingham-ma/events/show/236038024-valentines-day-party-with-your-pet

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