Celebrate National Pet Month

May is National Pet Month in the United States — a time to celebrate all of the benefits that our pets bring to our lives. In honor of this fun month-long holiday, we’ve rounded up a handful of ways you and your pet can celebrate National Pet Month together. 

To help get your started, here are a ten ideas on ways you can celebrate: 

Go Exploring 

Look for a dog-friendly park or restaurant near you that you haven’t visited before — then go enjoy. Your cat might also like going to the pet store to see the fish and the birds, or to pick out some new treats. 

Get Your DIY On 

Make some new toys, treats, or beds for your animals. You can find many various easy-to-follow DIY tutorials online. Here are a few examples to get you started: 

• No-sew cat bed
• 12 Easy, Fun DIY Dog Toys That Won’t Break the Bank
• 5 Homemade Cat Toys I Made From Empty Toilet Paper Rolls
• 25 Simple Dog Treat Recipes: Made With 5 Ingredients or Less

Hang Bird Feeders

Your cat will appreciate it if you hang some bird feeders right outside the window so she can watch the goings-on. You can DIY bird feeders, too; try these ten ideas. Make sure to create a comfortable place near the window for your cat so she can have the best vantage point possible. 

Have A Photoshoot 

Taking photos of dogs and cats who don’t like to sit still can be difficult, so for best results, let your pet run the photoshoot instead of you. Follow them around with your camera or phone and snap pictures of them living their normal lives — then print the photos and put them in picture frames around your house. You could also create an Instagram account for your pet.

Watch TV And Snuggle 

Get cozy on the couch and watch some pet-themed movies and shows. Your dog will probably fall asleep a few minutes into the show, but cats can sometimes enjoy watching TV. 

Water Games 

Cats might not want to partake in these particular activities, but your dog might love swimming in the lake or running through the sprinkler. You could even teach him to go stand-up paddleboarding. 

Doga 

Yoga studios in many cities have begun to offer “doga” classes, where you can do yoga with your dog. If you’re feeling brave, you could also try yoga at home with your cat. 

Go For A Walk 

Walks aren’t just for dogs — you can take your cat on walks, too (or at least, you can try). Train your cat to walk in a harness and leash and begin taking short walks around your neighborhood. 

Play Hide-And-Seek 

This is an especially fun game for cats, who will love stalking you as if you’re their prey (maybe not quite as much fun for you). Dogs enjoy hide-and-seek, too, especially when you reward them with a treat when they find your hiding place. 

Brain Teasers 

Boredom busters are a great way to pass the time and strengthen your pet’s problem-solving skills. One favorite is the muffin tin game: Put some treats in a muffin tin, cover each section with a tennis ball, and let your pet sniff out the treats. 

You can also create an obstacle course (either indoors or outdoors) for your dog, or build an indoor playground for your cat using cardboard boxes and other household items. 

Regardless of how you celebrate National Pet Month with your pet,  your furry friend will just be happy you are spending some extra time loving and pampering them throughout the month!