by Kelsey Warren-Bryant
Valentine’s Day is a time for blossoming romance, rekindling relationships and sending special messages to those we care about. However, in the bustle of the holiday, we don’t always consider that it’s also an opportunity to show love to those who love us quietly and unconditionally — our beloved pets.
Spending time with pets has been shown to reduce stress, boost mood and even lower blood pressure. Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to slow down and reconnect with your furry friend. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a game of fetch or simply cuddling on the couch, these moments strengthen your bond and remind you both that love comes in all shapes and sizes — sometimes with four paws and a wagging tail.
While a quiet day spent together at home reconnecting counts as quality time, you can also celebrate by taking your pet out on a special “date,” giving them a thoughtful gift or involving them in a fun craft. Here are a few ideas to inspire you this Valentine’s Day.
Spend quality time together at a local event
On Sunday, Feb. 22, Red Coyote Running and Fitness will host its Puppy Love 5K at Stars & Stripes Park in Oklahoma City, in partnership with 405 Animal Rescue. Whether your pet is an active runner or prefers a slower pace, you can spend quality time exercising together, all while supporting a great cause. You may even have the chance to meet and adopt another valentine while you’re there. Red Coyote invites you to “join the pack” no later than Feb. 14 to reserve your spot in the 5K. You can purchase tickets by visiting redcoyoterunning.com or by registering through their Run Sign Up page.
Let your pet lend a paw with personalized Valentine’s cards
Add a little extra sweetness to your Valentine’s Day cards this year by letting your pet lend a paw. This project can be shared regardless of species and will give your cards a heartfelt, creative touch. Follow the instructions below to turn your pet’s paw print into a teddy bear holding a balloon.
What you need:
- Blank cards (however many you plan to give)
- Non-toxic brown paint
- 1 paper plate
- 1 black Sharpie
- Medium to large heart stickers, two per card
- Black pen
Instructions:
- Pour some of the brown paint onto your paper plate.
- Dip your pet’s paw into the paint and stamp it onto the card upside down, with the back of their paw facing up toward the top of the card.
- Let the paint dry. Once dry, place one heart sticker in the middle of the paw print, with the heart’s curved sides toward the top of the card. The heart should cover the gaps, so that the toe pads resemble arms and legs.
- Next use your black Sharpie to draw two eyes on the largest part of the paw (or the “palm”). The paw print should now resemble a teddy bear with a heart on its belly.
- Lastly, draw a black line going up diagonally from one of the teddy bear’s hands. Place your other heart sticker on top of the line to look like a balloon.
- Your paw print teddy bear is now complete! If desired, write a sweet or personal message to whomever will be receiving your paw print teddy bear card.
No matter how you celebrate — cuddling, crafting or outdoors — the most important thing is simply spending time with those you love, including the furry ones. After all, their love is unconditional every day of the year.
