Thanksgiving is a special time to be thankful for the things we have in our lives. It’s a time for our family and friends to get together and be grateful. Some of the things we should be thankful for are our pets. Thanksgiving is a beautiful time to involve your pets in the festivities. Here are some pet-friendly Thanksgiving activities you can enjoy with your furry friends.
Pet Parade or Photo Booth
If you have kids and pets to keep entertained, a parade for pets and kids could be fun! Dress your kids and pets in their Thanksgiving costumes and create a runway or walk around your yard or a local park for friends and family to watch. Be sure to have a camera ready to capture the adorable moments. If a parade is too much work, a more straightforward option is to set up a Thanksgiving-themed pet photo booth. You can create a cute backdrop and props like pilgrim hats, turkey feather boas, and other cute accessories. Take fun photos of your pets (and kids) and share them with friends and family.
Outdoor Playtime or a Treat Hunt
If you have a dog who loves to play outdoors, take them out in your yard or the dog park. Your dog will enjoy the fresh air and the company of other dogs to play with. For a more brain-testing exercise, create a treat hunt for your pet or agility course. Hide pet-friendly Thanksgiving treats around your home or yard, and let your pets have a blast hunting for them. You can use any chairs or things on hand for an agility course to create mini hurdles or tunnels. Guide your pets through the course or encourage them to explore it independently. Both activities are a great way to keep them mentally and physically engaged while being in the spirit of the season!
Thanksgiving Hikes
If your family and dog love to be active, a Thanksgiving hike may be best to plan! Take your dog for a Thanksgiving hike in a nearby park or nature reserve. Enjoy nature together while bonding with family, and remember to bring water, treats, and waste bags. Check out our blog on Austin area hikes for nearby areas to explore. You’ll be sure to come home with an appetite for dinner!
Pumpkin Decorating or Crafting
Pumpkins aren’t only for Halloween! They are a seasonal symbol that works as Thanksgiving decor as well. Let your pets “help” with pumpkin decorating. While you carve or paint pumpkins, give your pets their own uncarved pumpkin to explore. They might enjoy sniffing, pawing, or even sitting on it! You can also get creative with your pets by making pet-friendly Thanksgiving crafts together. For example, create a “thankful” tree by adding pet paw prints and things you’re thankful for on a tree-shaped poster. These crafts can be great to keep and look back on in the future!
Create a Thanksgiving Meal for Your Pets
Thanksgiving is known for its turkey or ham dinner and tables full of food! Treating your pets to some pet-friendly holiday food for the festivities would be nice. Prepare a special Thanksgiving meal for your pets using pet-friendly ingredients like plain cooked turkey, plain sweet potatoes, or pumpkin. Check for any allergies or dietary restrictions your pets may have. Do your research online for some pet-friendly recipes, and if you need more clarification, always consult your veterinarian. Remember to take a moment to express gratitude for your furry friends before you eat dinner!
A Cozy Thanksgiving Movie Night
As a perfect ending to a busy day, have a cozy night in with your pets, watching Thanksgiving-themed movies or shows. Share some pet-friendly snacks, and let your pets snuggle up with you. This is an excellent way for you, your pet, family, and friends to bond and relax after a good meal.
These are just some pet-friendly Thanksgiving activities you can do with your pet. Remember to prioritize your pets’ safety and well-being during these activities and consider their comfort and enjoyment. With the proper planning, Thanksgiving can be a memorable and enjoyable time for you and your pets. And who knows, maybe you’ll end up with some new Thanksgiving traditions for the years to come!
Remember to call Luv My Sitter for all your pet-sitting needs if you are away for the holidays! Contact us for more information.