Webster’s Dictionary defines appreciation as a feeling or expression of admiration, approval, or gratitude. Googling the word appreciation turned up this definition: the recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something.
It can be so easy to get involved in the day to day responsibilities of life, and to forget to truly appreciate, to truly honor, respect, and delight in your pet. So, in honor of Pet Appreciation Week, celebrated June 4-10, let’s devote each day of the week to an action that will show our pets just how grateful we are for them.
Sunday: HONOR your pet by choosing wisely. Select a pet that is right for your lifestyle. Have plenty of time and energy to walk a dog every day? A lab or retriever is your speed. Live a quieter lifestyle and need a lower key pet? Try a basset hound. You can read our post, Finding the Perfect Pooch for more help deciding what dog is best for you.
Monday: RESPECT your pet by setting him up for success. You can brush up on ways to respect your cat by reading our post, R-E-S-P-E-C-T, Find Out What it Means to Your Cat. Prepare your pet for a variety of situations, from greeting visitors politely to behaving in the vet’s office. It is also important to socialize and train your pet. Check out our post, Why, When, and Where to Train Your Pup for more about training your dog.
Tuesday: VALUE your pet’s health. Help him maintain a healthy weight by providing plenty of exercise and play time. Not only does exercise help dogs stay healthy and agile, it can also eliminate digestive problems and reduce unwanted behaviors like destructive chewing and barking. See our post, How to Exercise Your Dog When it’s Cold for some tips on how to make exercise happen even when the weather is bad. Don't forget to invest in your pet's health by enrolling him in a pet insurance policy so you can afford the best veterinary care when hes sick, ill or in need of preventative care!
Wednesday: Take INTEREST in your pet’s well-being. Keep regular vet visits, and maintain dental health. Oral hygiene is as important to your pet’s health as it is to your overall wellness. PetPartner’s Wellness Plan’s schedule of benefits allows for a dental cleaning each year. You can also read our post, What to Expect in a Wellness Check, to learn reasons why your pet needs well checks and what to expect at the check ups.
Thursday: ACCOUNT for your pet by spaying or neutering to avoid unplanned pregnancies. Spaying or neutering your dog or cat prevents unwanted puppies or kittens. PetPartners offers plans to help offset the cost of this procedure. Their Defender Plus Plan allows for a choice of spaying or neutering or a dental cleaning each year.
Friday: REGARD your pet by making him a part of your emergency plan. ID your pet, know your pet’s favorite places to hide, and attach window clings to notify emergency personnel that there are pets in your home. See our post, National Disaster Preparedness Month for more tips on preparing your pet for emergencies.
Saturday: DELIGHT in your pet. Your pet has the power to lift your mood, lower your blood pressure, and benefit your kids’ immune systems. The least you can do is give him a lifetime of love. Senior dogs can be tough to care for, but with our tips, you can love your pet right up to the very last minute. Read How to Care for Your Senior Dog to learn about the areas to pay particular attention to as your dog ages.
So, what are you waiting for? Go appreciate your pet. Show him the love, honor, and respect he deserves!
