Valentine’s Day is on Friday! And, while it’s tempting to shower our loved ones with gifts, let’s not forget our 4-legged kids! It’s easy to get caught up in the commercial aspect and head straight for the pet store, loading up on heart-shaped toys, gourmet treats, and fancy new collars. But, ask yourself, will these material things truly make your pet’s day? The truth is, while a new toy might provide a fleeting moment of excitement, what our pets crave most is something far more valuable: our time, attention, and engaging activities. Trust me, shower your St. Louis pet with love this Valentine’s Day instead of spending money on junk – everyone will be better for it!
Ditch the Consumerism For Enrichment
Ditch the Consumerism For EnrichmentPets, unlike humans, don’t understand the concept of Valentine’s Day or the symbolism behind a sparkly new trinket. Their love language is much simpler: quality time, physical activity, and mental stimulation. A mountain of toys won’t replace a good belly rub, a stimulating walk, or an engaging play session.
Enrichment, in particular, is critical. AEnrichment is a way to provide our pets with experiences that meet their behavioral and mental needs. It can also help reduce stress and improve their physiology. By incorporating their five senses and biologically appropriate behaviors in their daily activities, we enrich their lives.
So, this Valentine’s Day, I’m challenging you to shift your focus away from material gifts and embrace experiences. Following are my top ways to make your pets feel the love this week! Short on time? We can help – keep reading!
Quality Time & Enrichment
Quality Time & EnrichmentPut down your phone, turn off the TV, and dedicate some uninterrupted time to your pet. This could involve cuddling on the couch, having a grooming session filled with gentle strokes, or simply sitting quietly and offering your undivided attention. The act of being present and connected is a powerful expression of love.
Take your dog for a ride in the car – just because – or a stroll in the park. Sit on a secluded park bench and watch people from afar, or let your dog sniff a tree for as long as he’d like. While it’s cold right now, consider planning a belated Valentine’s Day camping trip with your dog(s.)
For indoor cats, invest in a backpack or stroller and let your cat experience the sounds, smells, and sights of the outdoors safely while you enjoy each other’s company.
Always prioritize your pet’s safety and comfort when planning any outing by using safety devices in and outside the car.
Exercise for the Body and Mind
Physical activity is crucial for a pet’s physical and mental well-being. Take your dog for an extra-long walk in a new location, go for a hike in the woods, or engage in a rousing game of fetch. For indoor cats or when the weather is bad, try interactive play sessions with a laser pointer, feather wand, or puzzle toy. Even a short burst of activity can make a big difference in pets’ mood and energy levels. Just make sure you use treats at the end of laser pointer games so that your pets don’t feel frustrated having hunted for something that wasn’t there.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Provide your pet with opportunities to engage their minds through puzzle toys, trick training sessions, and scent work. Hide treats around the house for your cat or dog to sniff out, teach your pet a new trick, or create a foraging box for your small animal. These activities challenge their minds and engage their senses, preventing boredom and leading to a happier and more well-adjusted pet.
Snuffle mats are a great way to keep dogs enriched with minimal investment. While these are said to be for dogs, most work well for cats and small animals too – just be sure to watch for stray threads and ribbons.
Outsource Exercise & Enrichment
Outsource Exercise & EnrichmentI get it, life is full of demands and, sometimes, as much as we want to, our pets walks and playtime can be postponed or cut short. Especially when working outside the home, raising human children, and caring for aging parents, time can be limited. Instead of feeling like you’re not doing enough, consider outsourcing your pet’s exercise and enrichment to our highly trained and capable team.
Our dog walking and cat sitting services can be scheduled as little as once a week and provide exercise, enrichment, socialization, and lots of love, making them the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for busy pet-loving families!
The Best Pet Care in St. Louis
Valentine’s Day is about expressing love and appreciation. When it comes to our pets, the most meaningful way to do that is by providing them with the things they truly value: our time, attention, and opportunities for enrichment. So, skip the crowded pet store this year and focus on what truly matters. They’ll thank you for your efforts with a more relaxed demeanor, improved behavior, and, often, reduced anxiety symptoms.
At 4-Legged Kids, Inc., we personalize our award-winning dog walking and pet sitting services to meet your and your pets’ needs. Call 636-405-0400 or email ask@4leggedkids.com to register. Existing clients, please request services here.
Janie founded 4-Legged Kids, Inc in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1997 and provides education through her PetBizHIVE podcast and her PetBizMBA membership and courses. She is a Certified Professional Animal Care Operator, Fear Free certified and a Certified Professional Pet Sitter. Learn more about the Founder, Janie Budnick.
