Pet Appreciation Week, celebrated the second week of June, is a chance for National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS) members and pet parents to show love and devotion to the pets that are in our care and who show us every day how much they return our love.  Not only do pets give us unconditional love, but according to the Centers for Disease Control, pets can decrease blood pressure, lower cholesterol and increase opportunities for socialization.  Here are some ideas to pamper you pet during Pet Appreciation Week.

For dog pet parents, a trip to the dog park is always a treat for the pet.  As long as a dog is in good health, has all their shots, and is well-mannered, they should do well at a dog park.  Adding an extra 10 minutes to a routine walk will not only make a pet happier and more satisfied, but give the pet parent a few more minutes of exercise as well.  There are hundreds of recipes on the internet to make homemade dog treats, so pet parents can easily find recipes for treats that taste like peanut butter, banana, bacon, cinnamon and even flax seed.

For pet parents who have cats, playing laser beam is a good way to keep a cat stimulated and active for a few minutes each day, or even making a new cat toy, such as tying a piece of string on a door handle.  Keeping a litter box fresh and clean each day is also a way to appreciate a cat, as they are very smell sensitive.  Cats enjoy being petted, so cuddling and talking to a cat a couple times a day shows them how much they are loved.  Just make sure not to pet a cat too long if she is showing signs of agitation.  Using a massaging grooming glove or a brush on a cat may also relax them for a few minutes.  Cat parents can also plant some cat grass near one of the cat’s favorite lounging places in the house. 

There are many things pet parents and NAPPS members can do to show their appreciation and love towards pets.  But the most important to keep a pet happy, healthy and safe is to make sure pets records, vaccinations, shots, tags, and microchip information are up to date.  Take this week to show appreciation to pets everywhere who give unconditional love.