The picture at the top of the post is my cat, Luna. I recently adopted her from the Humane Society.
Pets can bring enjoyment, happiness, amusement and unconditional love into owner’s lives. Here is a list of ways you can return all that to your pet.
Feed Them a Healthy Diet
Most manufacturers of pet food have their own agenda, so visit the American College of Veterinary Nutrition‘s website to get guidelines on what is right for your pet.
Exercise
Make sure your fur baby is getting lots of movement into their day. Take them on walks, play with them or allow them to play with other animals.
Learn How to Speak Their Language
Your pet does have ways to try to communicate with you, make sure you understand those gestures. Check out books on your specific pet.
Learn What They Like
If your dog loves to dig, build a sandbox she can go nuts in. Or if your cat likes to climb buy a cat tower.
Go to the Vet
Your pet’s health should be just as important as your own. Make sure to visit a local veterinarian once a year and anytime you notice any issues.
Play Games
Pets can become bored and despondent if they don’t have regular interaction. Make the time to play with them.
Pamper Pets with Lots of Cuddles
Not all animals like to be cuddled in the same way. Dogs in general don’t enjoy hugs, but lean into them to give them some love. Most cats have certain areas they don’t particularly like touched. Find out the best way to pet them and show them affection.
Praise
Dogs can be trained to understand what we say or how we say things. Cats understand intonation. Give them loads of positive feedback.
Give Them a Challenge
Again, pets can get bored just like we do. If they aren’t stimulated enough, they will find ways to entertain themselves, like tearing up things or digging through the trash. Try placing a treat into a puzzle or teach them how to do a trick.
Take a Training Class
Anything you do together, helps them to bond to you. Taking an obedience class with your pet benefits you both.
Groom
Pamper your pet by brushing them regularly, giving them baths and getting them groomed.
Give Them Their Own Space
Older dogs appreciate an orthopedic bed with toys nearby. Cats adore their own special seat near a window.
Let Them Sleep with You
I know sometimes this is just not workable, but if you can, pets bond deeper with their owners when they can sleep with them.
How do you show your love and affection with your pet? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below.
Reclaiming the cat toys from the dog,
Traci
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