Valentine’s Day… an entire day to celebrate love! While this polarizing holiday is adored by some and dreaded by others, you very well may have the best Valentine you can ask for sitting at your feet right now… your pet! Make this February 14th the best you’ve ever had using these six ways to spend Valentine’s Day with your pet in and around the Waterbury, CT area.
Go On a Shopping Spree
There are few things more joyful than a playful pup receiving a brand-new toy or your picky cat getting treated to that snack she just adores. Head to your local pet store to grab a treat for your furry Valentine! As an added bonus, most pet stores will welcome on-leash, friendly dogs to come along for the trip!
Some of our favorite local pet stores include Thomaston Feed in Thomaston, Natural Pet Oasis in Watertown and the Better Beagle Co in Oxford!
Donate to a Local Shelter
Does your pack have enough toys already? Consider taking that shopping trip to pick up a donation for a local rescue. Rescues do such important work saving and rehoming dogs and cats from across the country. They are often run solely by volunteers on a small budget. Put a smile on these selfless humans’ faces and give some pets in need an amazing Valentine’s Day!
Not sure where to donate to? We have a list of rescues our clients love. Pick your favorite and get shopping!
Get Some Exercise
Getting active is a great way to keep both you and your dog in tip-top shape, mentally and physically! With Connecticut’s lack of snow this season, hiking trails and popular walkways are clear and ready for use! Some of our favorites include the Quarry Walk in Oxford, the Larkin Bridle Trail in Naugatuck and Southford Falls in Southbury.
Looking for some off-leash fun? Consider a trip to your local dog park! The Naugatuck Dog Park is completely fenced in with a separate area for small pups to frolic. The Southbury Dog Park is home to trails and a river to splash and play in but does not have man-made boundaries on all sides. The Newtown Park and Bark is completely fenced and contains an agility course to challenge your dog! The local possibilities are endless.
Of course, it is mid-February and we may see some cold temperatures this Valentine’s Day! Keep these winter pet care tips in mind to keep your pup safe and warm on your adventure.
Do a Pet-Themed Craft
Remember this Valentine’s Day forever with a special keepsake to celebrate your love for your pet. There are many different options and which you choose will depend on your preferences, your budget, your pet’s personality and how creative you can get!
Want to try something simple and quick? Make a salt dough imprint of your pet’s paw. This can be hung on the wall, displayed in a shadow box or saved for this year’s Christmas tree! Want to learn a new skill? Consider making your pet their very own pet bed or sweater.
Visit a Pet-Friendly Restaurant
If you and your pup are still looking to brave that mid-February chill, consider grabbing a bite to eat or a drink at a pet-friendly restaurant. Due to health regulations, most places will not allow your dog inside the establishment but offer outdoor alternatives. The Hawk Ridge Winery in Watertown and Black Hog Brewery in Oxford are both great choices. Frankies and Carvel in Waterbury are side by side so you can treat you and your pup to hot dogs and an ice cream treat!
Curl Up and Watch a Movie
After a long week at work, a low-key Valentine’s Day evening might be just what you’re craving. Grab a blanket, some tea and settle down with your furry love for a movie night. Looking for a classic? Lady and the Tramp is our go-to. Do you want to watch something more recently released? Check out A Dog’s Way Home or a Dog’s Journey. Some of these are tear-jerkers so if you want to get the family involved, consider something more upbeat like The Secret Life of Pets!
How will you celebrate Valentine’s Day with your pet?
How else do you plan on spending your Valentine’s Day with your pet? Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below. We’d love to hear your local ideas to celebrate this day of love with the critters that adore you more than life itself.
Have a pet-free date planned this Valentine’s Day? Need someone to feed your fluffy crew? To learn how RCO Pet Care’s team of professional pet sitters can help you care for your pets this Valentine’s Day, check out our services, contact us or call us at (203) 641-2428.
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