Did you know February 20th was Love Your Pet Day? Our team at Anasazi Animal Clinic in Gilbert thinks every day is a good day to show your dog lots of love. Of course, when we feed our pets nourishing food, make sure their bowl is full of fresh water, and scratch behind their ears—we are showing them love by keeping them healthy. Why not get creative today and find other fun ways to communicate love to your dog? Keep reading for 6 simple ways to show your dog just how much you love her!
1. Make Eye Contact
Much like humans, dogs love eye contact and reap real physiological benefits from gazing deeply into the eyes of someone they love. Studies show that holding loving eye contact with your dog releases oxytocin in your dog’s brain—and in yours! Oxytocin is a hormone connected to feelings of happiness, as well as closeness. Making intentional eye contact with your dog will strengthen your bond.
2. Take a Nap Together
Dogs are pack animals, and snuggling up close to you makes them feel safe, secure, and bonded to you. You are most vulnerable when you’re sleeping, and dogs can sense that you trust them when you allow them to sleep with you. This kind of trust makes your dog feel safe and loved. Next time you take a nap in your bed, on the couch, or on the floor, invite your fur baby to join you for a little snooze.
3. Read Out Loud
Kids aren’t the only ones who love having a good book read to them. Why not share your current novel with the dog you love? When you read out loud to your dog, the continual sound of your voice soothes and comforts her. You can finish that book you’ve been working on and communicate love to your dog at the same time!
4. Plan a Lunch Date
There are a variety of restaurants and bars in Gilbert that welcome dogs. Many of these places provide a bowl of water and a dog treat for your furry sidekick upon seating! Why not spend some quality time with your dog by taking her on a fun lunch date?
5. Take a Drive
Not all dogs love car rides, but some find the car to be an exciting and relaxing space. For those dogs who love car rides, taking a drive together can be a wonderful way to spend quality time with your fur baby. Go take a drive through the countryside, up into the mountain, or by the water. Open the window partially, and let Fido take it all in!
6. Work on New Tricks
Some people assume dogs don’t want to go through training, but dogs love to learn new tricks! Give your dog the time and attention required to train her makes her feel loved and builds feelings of trust between the two of you. Training your dog is a great way to show her some extra love.
Give us a Call
We can’t possibly show our fur babies too much love! Let us know if you have any other fun ways that you communicate love to your dog! And of course, one of the best ways to show your fur baby how much you love her is to keep her healthy—contact Anasazi Animal Clinic in Gilbert to set up her annual wellness appointment today!
Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay