April is national pet month! And there’s still time to celebrate your beloved companion.
National Pet Month aims to raise awareness about the importance of pets and to promote responsible pet ownership. It’s the perfect time to celebrate the joy and companionship that pets bring to our lives.
From organising pet-friendly events to volunteering at local animal shelters, there are many ways to get involved and show appreciation for the furry, feathered, and scaled companions that make our lives brighter.
Here are some of my ideas for how to celebrate!
Book a pet portrait photography experience
Of course, I couldn’t not mention that booking a pet portrait session is an ideal way to celebrate your companion. My sessions are designed to be fun and memorable for both you and your pet and leave you with stunning photographs to cherish forever. Creative portraiture is an investment that will continue to make you smile for many years.
Throw a pet-party
Hosting a pet party is possibly the most fun way to celebrate! Not only does it allow you to socialise with your human friends, but you’ll also provide a unique experience for your furry ones. You can get creative with the party theme and activities, such as throwing a costume party with prizes for the most creative or funniest. You could set up a DIY pet treats station, create an agility course, or host a talent show where pets can showcase their unique skills and tricks.
You could set up a paw print art station for guests to create personalised art using their pet’s paw prints.
You can even provide pet-friendly food and snacks, such as dog-friendly cupcakes or catnip treats.
Overall, a party is a fun, unique way to celebrate your pet. Just make sure to plan ahead and ensure that all activities and food are safe and appropriate for all pets involved.
Fundraise for a pet charity
You could also think about hosting a charity event as a fun way to raise money for an animal charity of your choice. Organise a charity walk or run, where participants can bring their pets and raise money through sponsorships or entry fees. Or perhaps a pet parade, where pet lovers can show off their furry friends and raise money for the charity through entry fees and sponsorships. These events not only raise money for a good cause but also bring pet owners together for a fun and memorable experience.
Buy brain teasers to keep your pet intellectually active
Alternatively, if you would like to do something low-key to celebrate your pet at home, how about a brain teaser to get their brain working? There are many options for toys and treats that can engage your dog’s mind and make them work for their reward. Here are some ideas:
Puzzle toys: These are toys that require your dog to figure out how to get the treat out. Examples include treat-dispensing balls, cubes, or puzzles.
Snuffle mats: These are mats that are designed to mimic grass, and you can hide treats inside the mat for your dog to find. Your dog will have to sniff around to find the treats, which can be a fun and engaging activity.
Interactive toys: There are many interactive toys available that require your dog to manipulate them in order to get a treat. Examples include toys that require your dog to push, pull, or slide pieces to get to the treat.
Frozen treats: You can also freeze treats in ice cube trays or freeze a stuffed Kong toy for your dog to work on. Your dog will have to work at the treat to get it out.
When choosing a toy or treat for your dog, just make sure to keep an eye on them to ensure their safety and that they are not ingesting anything harmful. Also, make sure to choose an appropriate level of difficulty for your dog’s skill level. While some dogs love a challenge and will work on a puzzle for hours, others may struggle and quickly lose interest.
Book your pet portrait session today
I hope this has given you some inspiration to celebrate your pet and their contribution to your life. If it has, I’d love if you could share with me some photos of your pet parade, charity walk or whatever you decide to do!
And if a pet portrait sounds like the perfect way to celebrate, you can book in a session with me today.
