Happy Valentine’s Day with your dog.

There is so much talk about Valentine’s Day. It’s the holiday of love… but what if you’re single? That’s me and many of my friends too. But we all have a big goofy love in our life, our dogs. It’s so easy to love a dog. They are loyal, meet you at the door with a big smile, will eat almost anything you feed them, snuggle and are excited to do almost anything with you. The perfect partner.
So, what do you do for the furry love of your life for Valentine’s Day? Mine would be really happy if I just stayed home with them, took them for a walk and then a pup cup at Starbucks. But if you want to make it an extra special day, here’s some ideas guaranteed to get a big kiss for you.
Take them on a “scent” walk. So many times when we walk, we’re trying to accomplish something. Walk fast so they are tired. Or, hurry up and go poo. But a walk taken at their pace is so satisfying for your dog. Take them to a wooded path and then let them set the tempo. Let them linger and smell everything along the way. It might be a shorter walk, but they will love every step.
 
Make them a treat or special dinner. You know what your dogs love. Mine like peanut butter, so homemade peanut butter treats are a favorite. And for dinner, nothing makes Pippa happier than salmon. She loves fish and when I grill salmon, I can see her smiling. So I’ll buy a piece a little bigger than what I would eat and make sure there is a little left for her and Bailey.
 
Give them an enriching toy. There are so many toys on the market right now that allow you to hide treats, requiring them to think through a process to get the treat reward. They are great at relieving winter boredom and will keep them occupied for a long time.
 
Snuggle time. Nothing makes Pippa happier than snuggle time. In the evening after everything is done, we relax together snuggled up watching TV. It’s her special time and if I’m late to bed, she starts giving me the look. TV, fuzzy blanket and the dog… the perfect doggie evening.
 
Take them for a car ride to watch something interesting. When it’s too cold and icy to walk, I put them in the car and we go to Pond Hill Farm. They can sit in the parking lot and watch the livestock and the kids. They are always fascinated by the activity and enjoy the drive.
 
Listen to your dogs…. they tell you what they love. If you’re paying attention, you can have a day of love that will make them and you very happy. Happy doggie Valentine’s Day.