We have said it before and we’ll say it again. Your Christmas dinner is not the appropriate food for your dog because some of the food we eat could be poisonous for them.
Christmas is no different to any other day for your dog. Your dog has no idea what it is all about and will not understand why you don’t give him presents during the rest of the year.
It is important to understand that dogs need toys, chews and beds all year round, making sure they’re the right size and type. So not getting them presents for Christmas doesn’t mean never getting them anything. Rather, it means they should always have these things. There is nothing stopping you from presenting these goodies a little differently.
Put together this month’s toy (it doesn’t even need to be new), a doggie bone, a chew, some treats in an interactive toy. Put them all in an appropriately-sized box that fits all but not too tightly.
You can pack the empty spaces with crushed-up newspapers. Close the box, poke some holes in the sides to allow the dog to smell the goodies and wrap it in Christmas-themed paper.
Present this to your dog on Christmas morning, whip out your camera phone and take a video of your dog having fun getting the goodies out. This can serve as entertainment for everyone who visits or you can share the fun on your social media page and give the idea to your friends. More importantly, it is one way to keep the dog busy and well-behaved.
You might be improving another dog’s day if you make an extra one or two and donate them to a shelter near you.
Don’t forget, there are hundreds of dogs up for adoption at the local shelters that don’t deserve being abandoned. They need love and food too, which is often in short supply, so if you still have some shopping you need to squeeze in, pop in to one of the local charity shops and help them by shopping there or remember to drop a bag or a can of food for them at the pet shop when you’re shopping. You can even find an event near you that is collecting food or money for the shelters.
It is the season of giving and celebrating with those close to us. Your pooch will agree!
Merry Christmas!
This article was submitted by Dogs Trust Malta.