10 Ways To Say "Thank You" To Your Dog During The Holidays, Part II
PART II
If your thoughts of gratitude this holiday season include your precious pup who faithfully brings so much joy and unconditional love all year long - show your appreciation by including your dog in the festivities of the season.
6. Grooming
A trip to the groomer for a new hair-do or even a spa treatment, blueberry facial, and massage can be a fun yet practical holiday choice. Grooming is not only aesthetically pleasing but hygienically prescribed. Bathing and brushing remove bacteria and may uncover tumorous growth or dermatologic conditions that need veterinary attention. The groomer files toenails to prevent painful walking. Extra gentle handling and kind attention from a carefully chosen, knowledgeable groomer will help your dog enjoy the visit.
7. The Gentle Dental
Polish those gorgeous pearly whites! While an anesthesia-free gentle dental procedure cannot match a complete, deep cleaning and oral exam given under anesthesia by your skilled vet tech or specialty veterinarian, neither does it pose the inherent dangers of anesthesia. Experienced practitioners work closely with veterinarians.
8. Environmental Enhancement
Indoors and out, your dog needs both mental and physical stimulation in order to thrive. From interactive toys to re-landscaping your yard in order to create a more natural dog-friendly space where your dog can run, jump, dodge, and perhaps even dig, there are a great variety of options that can provide novelty in your dog's environment and make life more interesting and enjoyable for her. Check out "Landscaping for Dogs" at www.hgtv.com.
9. Chewing
Most dogs love to chew. It's a natural canine behavior. Satisfy your dog's craving to chew with a safe (100% edible or 100% indestructible) chew item or food toy. A safe chew toy or bone can keep your dog happy, contented, and stress-free for a long while and free you up to take care of the guests.
Don't forget that cooked turkey or other meat bones splinter and can get caught in the throat or tear the stomach and intestinal lining. They should never be given to your dog.
10. Sanctuary
During the bustling holiday season, be sure to provide an adequate sanctuary for your dog that is quiet and safe. Too much excitement can lead to unwanted behavior and accidents. Your dog will fare much better if she has a designated spot to get away from it all and de-stress. A nice "nook and cranny" type open-door crate with a blanket thrown over the top side with a decent view in the corner of the living room, for example, will allow your dog to relax and nap when needed and still feel like part of the family. The dogs are, after all, depending on you to make wise choices for them.
For those dogs less fortunate than your own, you may want to give a donation or help an orphaned dog through a local breed-specific rescue group or shelter. We urge you to adopt for the holidays, foster or give to the more unfortunate dogs in whatever way you can this season.
Giving is inherently rewarding, so you can feel good about finding some special way to say "Thanks Buddy" to your year-round best friend while at the same time contributing to his overall well-being and happiness. What's on your dog's wish list?
