Whether you share your home with a cat, dog, rabbit, lizard, or parakeet, pets undoubtedly become beloved members of the family. One of the many joys of pet ownership is celebrating their first holiday with you, creating new traditions that include your furry or feathered friend. While your pet may not fully understand the significance of the holidays, involving them in the festivities can bring added joy to the season. While some of these traditions are tailored for specific holidays, many can be enjoyed year-round as a way to strengthen your bond with your pet. Let’s explore 32 pet traditions to start this year:
1. Gift Giving: Treat your pet to a special present, whether it’s a cozy bed for Fido or a comfy hammock for Felix. Involving them in unwrapping the gift can make for a memorable experience.
2. Family Photos: Capture special moments with your pet through family photos, creating lasting memories to cherish.
3. Special Sweaters: If your pet enjoys wearing clothing, consider dressing them in a festive sweater to join in the holiday spirit and keep warm during colder months.
4. Visit the Elderly: Spread joy by bringing your pet along for visits to elderly individuals, providing companionship and brightening their day.
5. Advent Calendar: Treat your pet to their own advent calendar filled with treats, or create a personalized one for added fun.
6. DIY Toys: Get creative by making homemade toys for your pet, adding a personal touch to playtime.
7. Homemade Treats: Bake special treats like catnip cookies or dog biscuits to spoil your pet with delicious homemade goodies.
8. Holiday Card Signing: Have your pet add a unique touch to your holiday cards by signing with a paw-print or nose-print.
9. Personalized Book: Create a personalized book featuring your pet, making for a heartwarming gift for fellow pet parents.
10. Declutter for a Cause
Designate a specific time each year to go through your belongings and donate any items you no longer need to charity. Animal shelters are always in need of supplies like blankets, pet beds, and food, so consider passing along any unused pet items to help animals in need.
11. Movie Night with Your Pet
Set aside an evening to have a cozy movie marathon with your furry friend. Introduce them to famous pets on screen, such as Beethoven or the lovable pups from 101 Dalmatians.
12. Enjoy Winter Walks with Your Dog
Take advantage of the cold weather by taking your dog out for a walk in the snow. Certain dog breeds thrive in cold climates and will appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs in the winter wonderland.
13. Upgrade Your Pet’s Bedding
Regularly assess your pet’s sleeping space to ensure it meets their needs. Investing in high-quality dog or cat beds will ensure your pet gets the restful sleep they deserve.
14. Chronicle Special Moments
Capture memories with your pet by writing them letters each year. Consider sending letters from your pet to family members who live far away to create a unique pen pal experience.
15. Host a Pet-Friendly Party
Organize a gathering with friends and family where your pet can interact with familiar faces. Create a calm environment with quiet spaces for your pet to retreat to if needed.
16. Craft Pet-Themed Ornaments
Add a personal touch to your Christmas tree by making ornaments featuring your beloved pet. These ornaments can become cherished keepsakes, even after your pet has passed.
17. Beach Day with Your Dog
Take your dog to dog-friendly beaches for a day of fun in the sun. If your dog loves swimming, they’ll especially enjoy the beach outing.
18. Share a Pet-Friendly Meal
Include your pet in a special meal, incorporating pet-safe foods that they can enjoy. Consider making this a regular occurrence to bond with your pet over a shared meal.
19. Engage Your Pet with Puzzle Toys
Provide your pet with entertaining puzzle toys to keep them mentally stimulated. Introduce new, challenging puzzle toys each year to keep your pet engaged.
20. Create a Puzzle of Your Pet’s Face
Challenge yourself with a puzzle featuring your furry companion’s adorable face. This activity is perfect for pet parents who enjoy puzzles.
21. Explore a Pet Market
Woman walking dog
Take your furry companion for a stroll through a bustling market, where a plethora of intriguing scents and sights await. The experience is sure to be enriched with your loyal dog by your side.
Hat making for pets
If your pet doesn’t mind donning a hat, why not fashion them a unique one for some playful fun? Alternatively, you can browse through your preferred pet store to find the perfect headgear for your beloved companion.
Exploring a new trail
Delve into the wonders of nature by embarking on a fresh trail each year with your faithful pup. Research some of the finest dog-friendly trails in the United States and compile a list of those you wish to traverse with your canine companion.
Visiting famous landmarks
Just as you discover a new trail yearly, there are countless iconic landmarks across the U.S. waiting to be explored with your furry friend. Consider making it an annual tradition to visit a different landmark each year, perhaps incorporating it into your vacation plans for added excitement and adventure.
Arranging playdates with friends
If your pet has specific furry friends, why not schedule annual playdates to reunite them? Alternatively, pay a visit to a local shelter and spend time socializing with other adorable animals.
Building a snowman
Embrace the winter season by sculpting a snow replica of your pet in snowy locales. While your pet may not assist in constructing the snowman, they are sure to appreciate the gesture or find delight in playfully dismantling it.
Upgrading their harness
While not as glamorous as other activities, ensuring your pet has a suitable harness is crucial as their needs evolve over time. Opt for a well-fitting harness, such as one designed for outdoor-loving cat breeds, to provide comfort and safety.
Setting resolutions for your pet
Consider setting specific goals for your pet each year, whether it involves training, exercise routines, or health check-ups. Taking proactive steps to enhance your pet’s well-being can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding companionship.
Creating a personalized calendar
Given the abundance of photos capturing your furry friend’s adorable moments, why not curate a custom calendar featuring twelve memorable snapshots? This thoughtful gift is perfect for sharing with loved ones and cherishing your pet’s cuteness year-round.
Indulging in catnip
Treat your feline friend to some catnip during a festive period to help them relax and unwind. Whether opting for traditional catnip or exploring alternatives like silver vine, this gesture is sure to delight your kitty.
Embarking on new animal outings
Each year, plan an exciting outing involving animals that your pet can partake in, such as swimming, biking, or visiting a dog-friendly park. These adventures are bound to create lasting memories with your beloved companion.
Bringing your pet to work
If your workplace permits furry companions, consider making it an annual tradition to bring your pet to the office. Be prepared for a day filled with adorable distractions and furry companionship that may make it.
