With the holidays rapidly approaching, you will want to make sure that you include some special members of your family – the four-legged crowd. Pets often get overlooked in the hustle and bustle of baking, shopping, decorating, and other holiday activities. Here are some tips to help include your furry friends in the holiday festivities!

• Playtime and Attention -
  Even though you have plenty of things to do this holiday season, that doesn’t mean that your pet’s needs can be put on the back burner. However, there are some alternatives to walking your dog yourself. Consider hiring a dog walker to come over and take your furry pal out on an extra romp. Another alternative is a doggy daycare. These facilities work much like the human kind, and you drop your pet off at a center and pick them up later on. Many offer large play areas and plenty of companionship. If you are going on vacation and cannot bring your dog or cat, consider boarding them at the kennel or having a pet sitter come in to care for them.
  
  
• Family Portraits -
  Many families take family portraits to send out during the holidays If your pet is a member of the family, why not allow them to join in the fun? Have a friend take the photos or go to a photographer with experience in pet portraiture. A new sweater, festive collar, or other holiday accessory is a nice touch if your pet will wear them. You can then have your portrait turned into a holiday greeting card to send out to friends, family, and neighbors.
  
  
• Yummy Treats -
  While it is not unusual to have your dog or cat hovering around the dining room table or the kitchen begging for a snack, human food is not usually a good option. Instead, make sure that you have plenty of pet-friendly treats on hand to offer your furry companions. Keep in mind that pets can gain weight with too many “sweets” as well, so be sure to get plenty of exercise to help both of you to avoid packing on the holiday pounds.
  
  
• Presents -
  Everyone loves presents, and that includes your pet! Dogs love tearing into the packages – you might just have to keep an eye out for everything under the tree. Your pet store can offer a variety of treats and toys for pets, including catnip, balls, chew toys, and more. You can also use the gift as a way to treat your pet to a big expense like a new heated bed or climbing tree.
  
  
• Give Unto Others -
  Besides receiving gifts, the holidays are also a time about giving gifts. You will want to keep other pets in mind when you are doing your holiday shopping. Friends, coworkers, and family members will often enjoy a gift for their furry companions. Consider donating toys, food, or money to a local shelter or animal rescue group on behalf of your pet. That way, other pets can have a joyous holiday season as well!

The holiday season is about love, friendship, and joy and you can make sure that your pet enjoys all of these by including him or her in your holiday celebrations.