I'm sure you'll agree that most all pet parents go above and beyond to show their beloved pets just how much they are loved and cherished. There's so many little and big things that Mommy does for me on a daily basis that I wouldn't even know where to start. I am one lucky and blessed little girl! Pets spend their lives giving unconditional love from our hearts because that's just who we are, but there are some additional things we can do to give little joys and added smiles to our parents hearts and faces. So on this Valentine's Day, I wanted to share just a few of the things I do to show Mommy that I care and that I really love her.
1. Help Out Around the House
I think it's important to help with basic chores whenever possible. There's lots of little things that a dog can do around the house to be useful and help make it a little easier for Mom or Dad.
For example, pre-washing the dishes makes it easier for a quick soap and water wash of plates and spoons.
Something else you could do around the house is to pick up your toys after playing with them and put them away to help prevent tripping. I like to pile all mine up in the middle of the kitchen so they aren't in the hallway walk area.
Another very helpful thing you can do around the house is to tear up cardboard and paper products that must go into the trash. Large paper plates, cereal boxes, kleenex boxes and soda can boxes are just a few of the things I like to break down for Mommy so she doesn't have to deal with that tiresome chore. It's the least I can do.
2. Make Sure They Get Play Breaks
Parents work very hard, and they often don't take the time to play when they should. It's up to us to ensure they don't work too hard and get the proper mental and physical breaks when needed, whether they work from home, are working on a home project, or are just doing daily chores.
If I think Mommy's been working too long or too hard, I'll start by providing a little comedic relief in the form of some silly smiles and a forced belly rub. Then I might jump up and turn back looking at her as if to say, "Come with me, let's go find a toy to shake for a few!" If that doesn't work, I'll bring the toy to her and drop it right on her laptop. You just have to gauge the situation and adjust your tactics as the need arises.
3. Share Your Food With Them
Nothing says, "I love you" more than sharing your food with the one you love. Mommy absolutely adores this particular look on my face. So what I love to do is save her some of my pumpkin blueberry banana oatmeal breakfast cereal on my chin like so (see photo), then I'll seek her out in the house and give her this look. She gets all mushy inside and will pretty much drop everything to share the sweetest puppy kisses with me. It's the most loving experience for both of us!
4. Give A Surprise Foot Massage
It might not be for every pet parent, but I've been doing this for Mommy for years. I just go up to her when she has socks on and paw her feet gently with one of my paws. It's very relaxing for us both.
5. Master a Trick or Command That's Been a Challenge
This is something that will make your Mommy or Daddy so immensely happy because they will not expect it at all. You, however, should expect lots of high pitch praise, affection, treats possibly and other accolades for being such a good little one. My latest surprise mastering was being successful at a drive in window. I like to bark at any and all drive through windows, even the ones that give out food. I don't know why...I just do. Even after 8 years, I still have a hard time of it sometimes, even with Mommy's consistent guidance. Well, one day recently, we went through a particular drive-thru that I always bark in and I only had to be corrected once. Then I was a super quiet Pixel! OH my goodness, Mommy was so super duper happy with me, and thrilled. My success really told her I loved her very much and it made her feel so good!
These are just a few ways that pets can show their parents that they are special and loved. Never forget the tried and true hugs, kisses, snuggles and wuzzles, but always try new and inventive ways to show them how much you love and adore them. Happy Valentine's Day!
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Read about 10 fun things you can do for your pet to show YOUR love in last year's Valentine's blog post entitled "
The Joy of Love - Pixel Top 10 Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day with Your Pet".
I think it's important to help with basic chores whenever possible. There's lots of little things that a dog can do around the house to be useful and help make it a little easier for Mom or Dad.
