It has been almost a year since the coronavirus pandemic broke out in the United States. This outbreak has caused a huge shift in the way we all live our lives, and take care of our pets.
Since the situation is still unpredictable, we still need to do our part to keep each other safe. The main way we can do that is by staying at home. It’s hard to say whether or not there will be more closures and lockdowns when we least expect it, but, as pet parents, it is reassuring to note that businesses that provide essential health and welfare services to animals will remain open. That means you will be able to secure daily walks, medical care, and necessary supplies for your pet during this time.
With the essentials taken care of, we at VIP Pet Services firmly believe you deserve to enjoy this time at home with the four-legged family members who mean the most to you.
In order to make life just a bit easier, and more fun read this list of fun things to do with your pet at home!
Make yummy, DIY dog treats for your pet at home
We’ve scoured the internet for easy, healthy dog treats you can make with ingredients that you already have at home. This no-bake peanut butter banana pupsicle recipe from Stephanie Eckelkamp at Good Housekeeping is really simple and a lot of fun to make! No silicone paw print moulds required. Click here to get the recipe.
Get back to basics with at-home behavior training
Now that we’re home more often with our dogs, some of us are realizing that our four-legged friends may not be the best coworkers after all. If you and your pup are working through some challenging behaviors, it may be a good time to get back to the basics! When done correctly, dog training will improve your pup’s confidence, strengthen your bond, and give you a productive way to fill your days at home.
Dr. Dunbar is a highly-skilled, dog trainer with a huge library of online videos, eBooks and articles on how to train your dog, many of which are FREE!
Get closer with your cat
If you have a feline at home, you may wish to take the time to develop a closer bond. There are many things you can do to make the most of your quality time together! For starters, give him or her treats, engage them in play using laser pointers and lure toys, and try your hand at cat massages.
You can even clicker train your cat to do tricks! This article from Amy Shojai at the Spruce Pets blog is a great foundation for anyone who is new to clicker training and wants to give it a try.
Learn to take pro-level pet photos
Your pet is so cute, why not share them with the world? Take your pet out in the yard or call them over to an area of your house with an attractive backdrop and snap some beauty shots. Here are the tips we use to take pictures of your pets during our visits:
- Get on your pet’s level. They look the cutest from straight on!
- Hold a treat or toy behind the camera to get your pet to look at you. If this gets them too excited, try making a funny noise instead.
- Don’t pause to look at the shot! Just keep clicking away. When you stop to look through the pictures, you might miss a cute moment.
Remember to tag @VIPPetsLove when you share your photos online.
Get your dog out of the house
Barking dogs can be distracting while trying to work from home. While you are staying in to flatten the curve, consider hiring your local dog walkers to take your dogs out for a stroll. They’ll get the exercise they need to stay happy, and you’ll be able to work, uninterrupted. (We pick up poop, too!) Click here to book a pet care appointment with VIP Pet Services.
During times like these, pets are such a ray of sunshine. Connecting with your fur babies will lift your spirits and help you stay busy while you are at home, healthy and safe.
To our neighbors in the Dallas area, we hope that you and your family are well. Should you need anything at all, your friends at VIP Pet Services are here for you.