10 Ways to Say “I Love You” to a Pet on Valentines Day

Valentine’s Day has its roots in Christianity, back to St. Valentine who wrote, “From your Valentine” before he was executed. Today, Valentine’s Day is not only a religious holiday but it is also one where many of us show how much we appreciate our partners, those we have been dating for a little bit, and anyone else that is special to us. We exchange cards, candy, go to the movies, and anything else that expresses our gratitude and love.

What about our pets? They are special to us, we love them, they love us, and they could use a little extra TLC too. And come on, we all know that sometimes our pets are better than the person we’re dating because they don’t mind if we forgot to take out the garbage, leave our socks on the floor, or snore in bed. They don’t care if the sink is filled with dishes or if we smoke or drink too much with our buddies. All they care about is that we are kind to them, love them, and create a loving and safe environment for them.

It’s time to show your pets that you love them this Valentine’s Day.

10 Ways to Show “I Love You” To Your Pet

Spa Treatment

Take your pup to the groomer for a full makeover. Nail trim, oatmeal bath, trim, and brush out are a great way to show your dog that you care. Their skin and fur will thank you for it. Cold, dry weather can dry out their skin and dead fur can be tangled into their coats. A spa day will make them feel brand new. For your cat, a nail trim, a good brushing, and cleaning the ears with some catnip and yummy treats afterwards will show you care. We can’t guarantee they will like the treatment at the time, but they will be happy afterwards.
^{Image from Sandra Espinet}

Walk and Talk

Yeah, that’s right. That’s what dogs want, plain and simple. A long walk after breakfast or before dinner with ample time to sniff and check out every shrubbery, tree, and fire hydrant and maybe, just maybe, chase a squirrel up a tree will make your dog feel like the only dog in the world.
^{Image from Jackie Notman}

Bling

The Kardashians really like bling, your pets will too. Now, I’m not saying your pets are like the Kardashians. I’m just saying, ummm, well, uh…nevermind.

Your pets could use a new leash, new collar, or even a new fancy dish to eat out of. How about a fancy water dish with their name on it or a leather collar that looks stunning with their fur? There are plenty of accessories for your pets from little trinkets to outstanding jackets and shoes. Indulge a little. Show the world your pet is worth it!
^{Image from Pampered Whiskers}

Bonding

Dogs just want to hang with you, right? They want to know they are appreciated. So take the extra step this Valentine’s Day and spend some quality time together. A walk and game of fetch, or jog through the park will increase the bond already present. Small pets and cats may enjoy just being held or petted, playing with a toy, or talked to. Now, we know you already do these things but do it longer on Valentine’s Day. Give them some extra attention!
^{Image from Pet Plan}

Clean Up

Be a servant to your pet. Clean up their litter box, vacuum their bedding and wash it, scrub their food and water bowls, and clean the dried goopy peanut butter out of that Kong. Pets may not like being bathed but they do appreciate their things being cleaned. It also helps remove odors from the home. When you’re done your pet may thank you for it by coming over and giving you a head butt or face lick.
^{Image from The Family Handyman}

Dress Up!

If your dog wears sweaters or a raincoat when going out during the winter months, it could be a great time to buy a new one for her/him. You could also get yourself a matching sweater. Then no one will mistake that you are owned by your pet. I used to hang out with a girl who had a dog that loved putting on his argyle sweater vest every morning. It was very cute. I’m not sure if she had a matching vest.
^{Image from Amazon}

Angels on a Leash

Your heart will swell noticeably. Check it out and donate! Your heart will swell 3 times its current size. We promise. They are an organization of wonderful therapy dogs that visit people who need a little wet nose and wagging tail in their life as they heal.

It’s a great organization and maybe your perfect pup could become a therapy dog or you can donate and help Angels on a Leash continue bring love to those who need it.
^{Image from Angels On A Leash}

Foster or Adopt?

What would Valentine’s Day be without a true act of kindness or love? Just another cold day in winter is our guess. Check out http://www.aspca.org/aspca-nyc/adoptable-dogs/ to see other cool animals just waiting for their Valentine. Get to it! Your dog might make a new best friend or end up with a new sibling…
^{Image from Humane Society of Morgan County}

A Dog Love Doll

Anti-Warm and Fuzzy. This is really a love doll for your dog. I don’t know how it works. I don’t know if there’s a spray on scent or not. I… I… here’s a link. And no, I don’t know what the “cone” part is for…
^{Image from Squidoo}

Just Give’em What They Really Want

Ferrets, Hamsters, Rats, Rabbits – often want puzzles, mind exercises… a new maze made from cardboard boxes, a paper towel tube to crawl into or chew on, and maybe a some yummy treats hidden here and there.

Cats: Give’em a bird, err, we mean give them catnip.

Dogs: How about a cooked up meal of vegetables and brown rice mixed with salmon? Or maybe some fresh from the deli cheese? Your dog might even like to lick the peanut butter jar. Give ’em what they really want, food and more food.
^{Image from Custom Rubber Corp}

In all reality, a lot of pets would probably love for us to not date anyone else so they could have us all to themselves and home all the time.

What does your pet really love?