How to enjoy the holidays with your pets

For so many of us, our pets are part of our family.  We want to enjoy the holidays with not just our friends and family, but with our fur babies too! But often pet parents don’t know the best ways to include their animals in their holiday celebrations.  So here are a few ideas that can help make your holiday extra special this year.

1. Set up a holiday photo shoot

One of the most memorable ways to celebrate the season with your pet is by capturing special moments in a holiday-themed photo session. Whether you’re planning a formal family portrait or just snapping casual shots around the tree, make sure your pet is included. You can even set up a little photo booth with holiday props like a mini sleigh, faux snow, or a “Happy Holidays” sign.

If you’re planning to send out holiday cards, why not make your pet the star? Imagine a cute photo of your dog wearing a festive scarf or your cat curled up in a basket of ornaments.

2. Holiday-Themed Treats

Treat your pets to some special goodies this season! There are plenty of holiday-themed pet treats available, or you can make your own. For dogs, you can bake healthy dog-friendly cookies using ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin, and oats. Cats can enjoy special tuna treats or a batch of homemade “catnip cookies.” Be sure to check the ingredients for anything harmful to your pet, such as chocolate or xylitol, which are toxic to many animals.

If baking is not your thing, you can always buy treats that are festive-themed — ones that are shaped like snowflakes, gingerbread men, or even reindeer are great!

3. Matching Holiday Outfits

If your pet is comfortable with it, dressing them up in cute holiday outfits can be a fun way to include them in your celebrations. Think holiday sweaters, Santa hats, or even reindeer antlers! For a little extra flair, you can match your pet's outfit with yours for some adorable family photos. Just make sure your pet isn’t uncomfortable, and always go for soft, non-restrictive fabrics. If your pet is not a fan of clothes, try a festive bandana or collar to keep things simple yet still holiday-ready.

4. Pet-Friendly Holiday Decorations

There’s no reason your pet can’t enjoy the holiday decorations too! You can set up a little corner just for them, with pet-safe ornaments or a small tree of their own. Keep breakable items out of reach to avoid accidents. If you’re decorating your home, make sure any plants (like poinsettias or holly) are pet-safe, as many common holiday plants can be toxic to animals.

For cats, you can hang up non-breakable ornaments or even make your own pet-friendly ornaments using cardboard and fabric. Just be sure to keep anything small or edible out of reach!

5. Gift Your Pet a Special Present

Why not give your pet a little something under the tree? Whether it’s a new toy, a cozy bed, or even a luxury grooming session, pets love receiving gifts too. Consider getting your dog a new chew toy shaped like a bone or a holiday-themed rope toy. For your cat, a new scratching post or a fun interactive toy could make their holiday extra special.

Don't forget to add a personal touch, like a name tag with a festive engraving or a custom collar to help your pet stand out during the celebrations.

6. Include Them in the Family Feast (Safely!)

If your pet enjoys being part of the family mealtime, make sure to give them a little something special (but safe) on their plate. You can prepare a pet-friendly version of the holiday feast, like plain turkey, sweet potatoes, or carrots. Avoid giving them rich, seasoned foods like gravy or stuffing, which can upset their stomachs.

Make sure to keep any harmful foods — like onions, garlic, or bones — well away from your pets. Consider setting up a small “pet table” for your furry friends with their own treats and food to make them feel included.

7. Holiday Outings with Your Pet

If your pet loves to be out and about, why not take them with you on a holiday outing? Whether it’s a walk through a beautifully decorated neighborhood, a hike in the park, or a visit to a pet-friendly holiday market, bringing your pet along for the ride is a great way to include them in your holiday adventures.

Just make sure to follow any pet rules for public places (like leash policies) and keep your pet’s comfort in mind. Some pets might get stressed out with too many people around, so always gauge how your pet is feeling.

8. Cuddling and Bonding Time

The holidays can be busy, so make sure to carve out special bonding time with your pet. Whether it’s a cozy nap on the couch, a game of fetch, or simply cuddling up with them by the fire, your pet will love the attention. Quality time with your pet is one of the best ways to show them they are loved.

9. Set Up a Pet-Safe Holiday Space

With all the holiday hustle and bustle, it’s a good idea to set up a quiet, comfortable space for your pet where they can retreat if they get overwhelmed. This is especially important for pets that get nervous around large crowds or loud noises. A cozy bed, some calming music, and their favorite toys will help them feel safe while the festivities go on around them.

Final Thoughts

The holidays are the perfect time to show your pets just how much you love them! Whether it’s through special treats, festive outfits, or simply spending quality time together, there are countless ways to make sure your pets feel included in the season’s celebrations. Just remember to keep their needs and comfort in mind, and enjoy making memories with your furry friends!