Easy ways to pamper your pets

No matter what kind of day you’ve had, a little love from your pet is an instant pick-me-up. Spent two hours ensnarled in traffic? A little nudge from a wet nose will fix that. Boss isn’t cutting you any slack? Your furry friends think you can do no wrong.  Your soon-to-be-spouse suddenly got cold feet? You’ve got two big brown eyes gazing up at you with unconditional love.

So how do you say thanks to the furry friends who’ve made your life complete? Here are five easy ways to pamper the dogs, cats, birds, ferrets, gerbils, reptiles and other adorable animals you adore.

1. Walk this way. Grab a leash, open the door and the world is yours: just you and your baby and the great outdoors. A walk with your furry friend is about more than just quality alone time with his or her favorite person. It’s also an opportunity for both of you to burn some calories! If your pet isn’t the outdoors type, you can still offer plenty of opportunities to exercise. Outfit his or her tank or cage with a complete workout suite: treadmills, wheels, posts to climb, exercise balls and more.
2. Spoil them silly. Throw a new toy in front of your pet and turn off the TV: seeing your furry friend chase around his new possession will provide better entertainment than anything on television. You might even want to grab a video camera so you can capture the fun!
3. Don’t cheap out on the chow. Pets are expensive—we all know that—but one thing you don’t want to skimp on is a high-quality, species- and animal-appropriate pet food.  Check with your veterinarian about what’s best for your furry (or slimy, or feathered) friend. Then find your pet a comfortable place to eat—preferably near where the whole family dines so he or she can be part of mealtimes. Worried that ugly plastic food bowl clashes with your china? Choose a gorgeous food bowl like this one instead so your chum can chow down in style.
4. Spa day for Spot. Pamper your pet by giving him or her the royal treatment: shampoo, coat care, a nice, fluffy brushing and a “pet-icure.” Your pet will enjoy the attention, and a well-groomed animal is a healthy animal!
5. Don’t forget about the vet! Even if your dog or cat is as healthy as a horse, don’t forget those well-visits with the veterinarian. Your pet’s health care professional will be able to address any concerns you might have and administer recommended vaccines. Plus, a thorough check-up will allow the doctor to detect any problems that might be developing before they get serious.

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By: +Jorie Mark: writer for Vitacost.com