5 Ways to Show Your Pet Some Extra Love

(BPT) – Your pets are part of your family, and you would do just about anything for them. From the tail wags and face licks to the head bumps and purr fests, your pets show their unconditional love in many ways, every single day. If you’re looking for ways to reciprocate, consider the following tips for things you can do to show your pet some extra love.

1. Have a “yes day” with your pet

When was the last time you devoted time to solely focusing on your pet and doing the activities you know they love to do? The truth is, your beloved pets love nothing more than hanging out with you — so why not make a whole day of it?

Start by making a list of all the activities your pet enjoys or saying ‘yes’ to your pet’s cues to see where the day takes you. One more treat after a walk through the park? Yes! One more minute of scratches behind the ear? Yes! Whatever you end up doing, know that any time spent with your pet is time they’ll love.

2. Feed them nutritious, delicious food

One simple, yet important, way to keep your dog or cat happy and healthy is by feeding them nutritious and tasty food and treats. Choosing food that uses all-natural ingredients will not only help maintain their well-being, but your four-legged family member will love it.

While finding pet-food products with organic fruits and vegetables and sustainably sourced ingredients may seem like a daunting task, raw pet food leader Stella & Chewy’s has a variety of products to keep your pet happy and healthy. For cats, consider Raw Coated Chicken and for dogs, check out the Red Meat With Grain Raw Blend — or find your own favorite by visiting StellaAndChewys.com.

3. Find a great new toy

Animals need the occasional stimulation of a new toy or game, and they love playing with you. Try a new interactive toy or activity that can keep you both entertained for hours. When playtime is done, put the toy away so it’s still fresh the next time you bring it out for a play session.

4. Take some PTO for your P-E-T

Between family and busy work schedules, you may be wondering how to carve out dedicated time for your pets. Why not take a day off work for exactly that?

With more than two-thirds of pet parents agreeing that it’s important for family vacations to be pet-friendly, consider taking that extra day off to embark on a road trip with your pet. Visit friends, head to a dog-friendly beach, or go sightseeing at a national park. Whatever you do with your time off, your pet will appreciate the extra day hanging out with their favorite person — you!

5. Teach your pet a new trick

Most dogs — and even some cats — enjoy the challenge of learning something new.

Use their favorite treats to teach simple tricks at home like:

• “Paw” — Get your dog in a sitting position and show them you have a treat. Hold the treat in your hand close to your dog’s face and under their chin. Most dogs will try to paw at your hand to get to the treat. If your dog does this and touches your hand, give them the treat and praise.
• “Roll Over” — Sit in front of your cat with a treat 2-3 inches away from their nose. If you want your cat to roll to your right/their left, slowly arc the treat on a slight incline toward their right ear. For the left side, do the opposite, and reward with a tasty treat when the trick is completed.