Furry Friends At Christmas

Can you believe it is Christmas Eve already. At this stage I hope you are all cosy indoors with those you love, perhaps you have already started on having a few festive treats. Enjoy.

For me, my cat is very much one of my loved ones, part of the family. Having her with us means whilst the family gather, she is not left out, even if we are not at home. Plus she is also a moment of calm in amongst the craziness of the festivities when all you want is to have a peaceful and relaxing breath.

Here are 5 things to do with your pets at Christmas that will make you both feel great.

• Photos – we all love festive photos, silly Christmas jumpers and all the cheesy Photo Booth accessories you can use. Now some of you may dress your dogs up already in festive jumpers or jackets, or pop some antlers on to make them look like they work for Santa! But you don’t need to do any of that if it’s not yours or your pets thing. Instead, get your family and furry friend together and take a photo beside the tree or next to the presents. Get someone to take the photo or do a selfie. Then get this photo put on a canvas and hang it on your wall the following Christmas. Or use it for your Christmas cards. Make your pet part of it. Another great idea would be to follow your pet around over the Christmas period taking lots of candid photos and make a calendar or canvas or even use it as a screensaver for your phone or computer.
• Spending time with your pet is always fun. If they are anything like my cat, they will rule the roost and keep you on your toes. My cat sleeps pretty much all the time, so when she comes to see us to snuggling in, we take her up on her offer as, like all cats, she is demanding and things have to be on her terms. But I wouldn’t have her any other way. It’s always a pleasure when you have time off and can be with your pet without having to rush off to work. Although I do think at times they look forward to you getting back to work and getting back into a routine to give them their usual peace.
• Playing their favourite games – likely more suitable if you have dogs as cats are not as good at sharing or playing with toys – although string or feather toys with cats can be a game where you can pull it along whilst they chase it. Dogs are great playing with their toys and allowing you to join in. I’m not sure I have ever come across a dog who doesn’t love to play ball and fetch it back to you to then throw it again and repeat the process. You may be shattered after doing this daily over the holidays but think how much fun you both had.
• Giving them their favourite food – if we can eat all the food we love and over indulge then why not give your pet a meal you know they will enjoy. Make sure you take into account their dietary needs particularly if they have a condition that means you have to be mindful of what they eat. But pets are always so happy to be spoilt and be given something delicious. My cat loves Dreamies so she will definitely be getting a few more of these over the next few days.
• Exercise – whilst it is unlikely you will take your cat out for a walk (although I know some of you do) your dogs will always need to get out for some exercise whatever the weather and regardless of the time of year. Why not take your dog on their favourites walk more often during the holidays. If they have a particular park they love, then make their day by spending some more time there, playing with a ball or chasing them around. Get a festive lead for them and pop on a Santa hat whilst you walk. Bring some festive cheer to your usual walk.

Our pets are very much part of us and are our family. Use your holidays to spend more time with them and do the things they will love. They will enjoy the time and so will you. Our pets are great for our overall wellbeing, so make sure you keep them close at this time of year.

Wishing you and your furry friends a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful time over the festive period.

Take care and look after you!

Love Emma xx