Treat your dog this Valentine's Day

Who’s the one who’s always excited to see you, waiting patiently until you arrive home every day? Who loves you unconditionally? Who likes to snuggle in your lap at night while you relax watching TV? While it might be your significant other, more than likely it’s your beloved furry friend! Valentine’s Day is coming up, so why not celebrate the special love you have with your dog on this day that honors love?

What can you do with your dog that will make this day extra special? Here are a few ideas.

• Take a long walk, just the two of you. If you have more than one dog, take each one individually. While dogs are pack animals, they do appreciate the special bond created when you spend one-on-one quality time together. When you’re out for that walk, focus on your dog. Talk to him, let him stop and sniff the great smells, and take pleasure in being outdoors and alone with your dog.

• Spend extra time doting on your dog. One of the best times I’ve found for this is while I’m watching TV or just before bedtime. Quiet time spent petting your dog or rubbing his belly is soothing for both of you, and brings out the love even more.

• Play with your dog. Most dogs love to play games and when they enjoy them, we do too. Interactive fetch, tug, and “find it” are all such fun for your dog, and they can be for you too. When played with gusto, these games can bring out your inner child!

• Take your dog to dinner with you! Find a sidewalk café that allows dogs, and enjoy a relaxing evening with your dog. Invite others if you like, but include your dog.

• Give your dog a massage. The benefits of massage for humans are well documented, and they apply to dogs as well. You can reduce your dog’s stress, and help keep him healthy and happy through regular massage. A soothing Valentine’s Day massage will not only reduce your dog’s stress, but yours as well. Plus it’s a wonderful bonding opportunity.

One of my favorite quotes is “He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion." — Anonymous

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate the special love between you and your dog, and vow to make every day like Valentine’s Day.

Sherri Cappabianca, an expert in the field of canine health and fitness, is the author of two books on canine health, and the co-owner of Rocky’s Retreat Canine Health & Fitness Center, and Barking Dog Fitness, a Gym for Dogs, both located in Orlando. For more information, visit rockysretreat.com or barkingdogfitness.com