As the wave of Covid-19 pandemic continues to spread throughout the world, most of the countries have put strict traveling restrictions as a measure to help and combat the virus. While this is extremely beneficial for the health of the population, it also prevents a lot of people from traveling during the holiday season, as they are usually accustomed to. However, there are still many things you can do within the bounds of the restrictions, or even in your home if the government issued strict measures in your country.
Holidays usually leave us with extra free time on our hands that we can set aside for specially planned events that come with the tradition of the holiday itself. While it may be easy for people to connect and better spend time together (in accordance with proper social distancing), it may not be so easy for the dogs they may own since they could feel left out. This is why we’ve compiled several amazing things you and your dog can do during the holidays despite the traveling restrictions due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
Stay In
If you’re feeling lazy, or you just want to have a quiet holiday inside your home, you can simply do just that. Pull out the coziest blanket and pillows that you own, put on your favorite movie, and snuggle with your dog. Dogs naturally see us as a leader of their pack, which is why they follow us everywhere we go. Being in a cozy and fluffy pillow will be no exception for your furry friend. However, active dogs may be outside, they tend to be quite calm inside the house, allowing you to simply stay in and snuggle with them. After all, which dog has ever refused extra attention and cuddles from their owners. However, if they happen to be fidgeting around, bribe them with some special dog treats, and they will probably stay put.
The Good Old Outdoors
If you’re looking for a special activity to do with your dog during the holidays, one of the classic go-to things to do is to take her outdoors. If you have a specific kind of dog breed that doesn’t really like to run around the field, you can simply stay in, or put her in a dog backpack. If your dog happens to enjoy taking a long walk, this will be a blast for her. Simply look for a small forest, or a field in the place you live or that you’re visiting for the holidays and go for it. Being out in nature will give your dog a good exercise, a better opportunity to really connect both with her, not to mention she’ll be able to freely run around, and not be confined in a dog park.
Get Some Fresh Air
The holiday season usually divides people into those who just want to stay in and have quiet time, or the ones who use the opportunity to explore places they’ve never been to. While this may seem like a piece of cake for people who don’t own dogs, it might not be so easy for people who do. If you’ve ever tried to find a landlord who would allow dogs into their apartment, you know what we’re talking about. But nowadays, owning a dog is almost expected, so it shouldn’t be hard for you to find dog-friendly cottages available for your next holiday. There are no reasons why you shouldn’t be able to bring your dog on a trip with you and your family. Cottages are a perfect venue for dogs during holidays as they have enclosed gardens for your dog to freely run around, and the fresh air is much necessary and recommended to keep you healthy during the raging pandemic. Not to mention you will be surrounded by fewer people, which is in accordance with recommended social distancing.
Bake Dog-Friendly Food
One of the best ways to get creative with all the food you’ll need for a holiday season is to make a few dishes for your furry friend. The good news is that you don’t have to look very far to find dog-friendly ingredients as there are plenty of holiday foods that are suited for your dog too. Some of them include pumpkin, peas, carrots, apples (without the seeds or the core), and spinach. Some other foods that you can also feed your dog to are yogurt, cooked eggs, and salmon, but they should be used in moderation. Even if you’ve already cooked the holiday meals, you can always swift up some dog-friendly meals from the leftovers. Your dog will surely love you even more, not to mention it will make them feel more special and included.
Playdates
During any holiday season, people usually choose to travel to their family and friends, and sometimes even travel for fun. This almost always takes the dogs out of their usual routine where they play in dog parks with the rest of their friends. However beneficial it may be for some people to spend time with their loved ones and socialize, it can be quite lonely for dogs. Many of them may even feel left out because you’ll be giving a lot of your attention to the people you haven’t seen in a while. A great way to prevent this from happening is to schedule a playdate with other dogs from the people you may know in the area. If the people you are visiting have a dog, read no further, but, if they don’t you should try your best to ask them whether they know someone with whom your dog could play.
The Coronavirus pandemic might affect traveling by a great measure, but it can’t prevent you from spending quality time with your dog. No matter which activity you choose, you won’t make a mistake because you will be giving them extra attention and care they ever so deserve. Dogs truly are a special part of our families, and they should be treated with equal respect and care, especially during holidays when most people tend to drift away towards their friends and relatives.