How to Celebrate the Holidays with Your Pet
Fun Traditions to Start This Year
The holidays are better when your whole family is involved, yes, that includes the four-legged members of the family. Whether you're stress-baking at midnight, battling wrapping paper, or taking in the neighborhood light show, there are so many ways to loop your pet into the fun. Here are some of our favorite ideas to make this season feel a little more special for everyone.
Dress for the Season
A festive sweater or holiday bandana can really set the mood and let's be honest, most pets secretly love being the center of attention. You don't need anything fancy. A soft knit for winter walks or even just a bow tied to their collar works. Browse our selection in store or online to find something that actually looks comfortable (because nobody wants their fur baby side-eyeing them all evening).
Capture the Moment
Get your pet in the family photo this year. Seriously. Whether you're staging it by the tree or catching them mid-zoomie in the snow, these are the shots you'll look back on. A bunch of our stores also run photos with Santa events, with some that help raise money for local rescues, so you get a cute keepsake and to support a good cause. Win-win.
Treat Time Made Easy
Listen, we love a good baking session, but if you're short on time (or patience), just grab some festive treats from your local Global Pet Foods store. We've got holiday themed treats made with quality ingredients. Your pet gets to indulge without you worrying about what's actually in there.
Stockings for Paws and Claws
Your fur baby deserves a stocking. Fill it with their favorite treats, a squeaky toy, maybe a new brush. Your local Global Pet Foods Pet Specialist can help help you curate the perfect stocking based on your pets preferences. Honestly, watching them tear into it (or sniff suspiciously for five minutes) is half the fun.
Decorate Safely
Holiday décor is gorgeous until your cat decides that ornament is now a toy. Keep the breakables, tinsel, and candles up high or out of reach entirely. Swap in some felt ornaments or battery-powered lights instead. Your space stays festive, and you're not playing defense with your pet all season.
Take a Walk To Check out Holiday Decorations
Bundle up, clip on a reflective leash, and go check out the neighborhood displays. You know your dog will love it, and if your cat's into harness walks, it's a nice low-key outing for them too. Swing by the store for reflective gear or a cozy coat, it makes those chilly evening strolls way more enjoyable for both of you.
Cozy Movie Nights Together
Sometimes the best tradition is just... staying in. Pick a holiday movie you've seen a hundred times, grab a blanket, settle in. Toss your pet a chew or a treat so they're part of the vibe. It's low effort, high reward.
Give Back Locally
If you're already stopping by the store, consider grabbing an extra bag of food or some toys to donate to a local shelter. It doesn't have to be huge. Even small contributions add up and make a real difference for pets waiting on their next chapter.
Make It a Tradition
Pick a couple of these and run with them. Your pet doesn't need it to be perfect, they just want to be near you. With a little bit of planning and zero stress, you can create a holiday season full of wagging tails, happy purrs, and memories that become part of your holiday traditions.
Stop by your local Global Pet Foods or shop online for everything you need to make the season bright for your pet family.
