Birthdays are the perfect occasion to celebrate your favorite furry pal. Whether your pet is nearing their first birthday or they hold senior status, you likely want to make them feel loved and admired on their special day. Our Animal Care & Emergency Services team knows how devoted you are to your pet, and we offer tips to help you and your four-legged friend have a fun and safe birthday celebration.

#1: Buy your pet the perfect gift

Everyone needs a gift to open on their birthday, and your pet is no exception, especially since they likely will enjoy opening the gift as much as the gift itself. Potential gift ideas include:

  • Orthopedic bed — What pet doesn’t love a nice luxurious bed on which to lay their head on their paws? Orthopedic beds provide supportive comfort to help your pet rest after a hard day of playing. This gift is especially great for senior pets who may be arthritic and experience joint pain.
  • Laser pointer — Cats love to chase a small red dot around the room, and this is an excellent way to ensure your feline friend stays active and gets the exercise they need.
  • Food puzzle toy — Using a food puzzle toy to feed your pet makes mealtimes more entertaining and keeps them from scarfing down their food too fast.
  • Water fountain — Many pets, especially cats, are drawn to flowing water. Water fountains can help encourage your pet to drink to ensure they remain well hydrated. 

#2: Make your pet a birthday cake

Your pet can’t indulge in a traditional birthday cake, but you can find dog- and cat-specific birthday cake recipes online to help your furry pal enjoy a delicious treat on their special day. When making your pet’s birthday cake, factors to consider include:

  • Ingredients — Chocolate is toxic to pets, and other ingredients, such as xylitol and macadamia nuts, are also dangerous. Check labels to ensure all ingredients are pet friendly.
  • Quantity — Sudden changes in your pet’s diet can lead to gastrointestinal (GI) upset. Only offer a small amount of their birthday cake at a time to prevent an upset tummy.
  • Candles — If you want to place candles on your pet’s cake, ensure you remove them before letting your furry pal near the cake to prevent an injury.
  • Storage — Store the cake in a secure location to ensure your pet doesn’t overindulge on their special day.

#3: Plan a pet party

If your furry pal likes to play with other pets, invite their friends for a party. Tips include:

  • Determining the guest list — Choose pet friends who are well behaved and play nicely with others.
  • Decorating appropriately — Make your home festive by putting up pet-themed decorations.
  • Providing party favors — Provide each guest with a baggy containing small party favors, such as yummy treats, chew toys, and a party bandana or hat.
  • Playing games — Play pet-friendly party games, such as fetch and hide-and-seek.
  • Including the humans — Ensure two-legged guests also are included by providing delicious party food and drinks. You can even develop a custom cocktail to honor your pet on their special day.

#4: Take your pet on a fun outing

If your pet races to the door any time you dangle their leash, they may prefer a fun outing on their birthday. Suggestions include:

  • Dog park — Take your furry pal to the dog park for a good romp where they can meet more canine friends.
  • Ice cream parlor — Many ice cream parlors offer pet-friendly pup cups for sweet treat loving dogs. 
  • Sniffari — Dogs enjoy investigating their environment through smell. Take your four-legged friend on a long walk and let them explore every nook and cranny with their nose. 
  • Beach or lake — If your pet enjoys swimming, take them to the beach or lake to let them jump in and paddle to their heart’s content.

#5: Schedule a photo shoot for your pet

You may take pictures of your adorable pet every day, but to commemorate their special day, you might want to schedule a professional photo shoot. Find a local pet photographer and make an appointment for a special birthday portrait session. If your pet tolerates clothing, find a cute outfit for the photo shoot to ensure they are as darling as possible, and post the pictures on your social media so your friends and family can admire your beloved four-legged friend. 

#6: Schedule your pet’s annual wellness examination

Your pet may not think that going to the veterinarian is the most fun activity for their birthday, but providing routine wellness care is the best way to keep them happy and healthy and by your side for as long as possible. 

If your pet encounters a veterinary emergency on their special day or any other day, contact our Animal Care & Emergency Services team so we can ensure they can celebrate their next birthday.