How To Celebrate St. Patrick's Day With Your Pets

March is here, and that means it's time to pull out your favorite shamrock-colored shirts and décor. If you have pets in the home, you may want to take a few precautions to keep them safe. If you plan to decorate with plants, tinsel, candles, or twinkling lights, keep them out of reach of your animals. Take care to keep human leftovers and alcoholic treats away from your dog and cat and provide some safe spots for your pets to get away from all the commotion if you have guests over. One of the best ways to make sure your dog and cat stay safe and happy is to plan their own special treats and celebrations.

Visit a Pet-Friendly Restaurant

Find out ahead of time whether your favorite restaurants are pet-friendly. Next, find out whether those places are truly equipped to keep your dog or cat safe and content. Before you head out to eat, there are a few things you can do to be sure that your pet is really going to enjoy the restaurant. First, test out basic commands, such as "quiet," "sit," and "stay." Use a short leash to keep your dog close and pack some favorite treats, as well as a portable water bowl. Many dog owners make sure to sit in a quiet part of the restaurant or situate their dogs under their tables. Some restaurants even provide dog treats and water bowls.

Dress Yourself and Your Dog in Seasonal Wear

Whether you plan to gather with your community in a parade or stick close to home for the holiday, something green and shamrock-themed is a great way to show off your excitement for St. Patrick's Day. You don't have to be Irish or feel particularly lucky to enjoy donning a green shirt and dress your little dog in a "lucky dog" shirt. If you don't want to make much fuss, a new green collar and leash may be enough to add a little bit of cheer to the holiday.

Take Your Pet in for a Cut and Color

Some groomers offer natural fur coloring, and you may be able to deck your dog or cat out in a fresh green look . Don't dye your pet's fur on your own; too many hair color treatments are toxic to your animal whether chemicals are absorbed through the skin or gets licked off. Also, before you submit your dog, cat, or other pet to a hair treatment, consider your pet's personality. Shy or nervous pets can feel a lot of stress and anxiety because of the change. Some pet experts advise against dying your pet's fur at all.

Bake Up Some Goodies

Pull out your baking supplies and whip up a batch of puppy cookies and other treats. Combine 2 cups of whole wheat flour with 1 tablespoon of baking powder, then add 1 cup of peanut butter and 1 cup of milk. When the dough is mixed together well, roll it out and cut cookies into shamrock shapes (or use any cookie cutters you have.) Place the tray of cookies into a pre-heated 475-degree oven and bake for 12 – 14 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies, so they don't burn. Once they're finished, pull them out and let them cool for a few minutes. These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for about a week. If you want to add a festive touch, chop up some fresh parsley to add to the dough or add it to some peanut butter for a thin "frosting."

Indulge in Some Dog Gifts

Just about any holiday is a great reason for gift-giving, and St. Patrick's Day is the same. If you're going to treat your human loved ones to a gift of a card or treat, remember to shop for your furry friends as well. A new bed cover or pillow is a great option. Don't forget the excitement surrounding a new dog toy; it could have a festive look, or you could choose any toy that your dog loves.

Go Outside and Take a Walk

Visit your local patch of greenery. If there's a dog park available, it could be a perfect location for your pet to run free. If your best friend is a cat or rabbit, your own yard may be the best spot to spend some time outside. A good long walk up a canyon or at the park can provide you and your pet with a cheery dose of sunshine, and you can keep your eyes open to catch a glimpse of a leprechaun while you're out.

Focus the Day on Your Cat

Here's a bit of trivia to make cat owners happy: March 17 is also St. Gertrude's Day. According to popular beliefs stemming from the 1980s, Gertrude is the patron of cats and a protector against rats and mice. This association between cats and mouse hunting may stem from the 15th century and the Black Plague. If you're a cat owner, you may enjoy celebrating both St. Patrick's Day and St. Gertrude's Day with your feline friend.

Celebrate Your Furry Friendships

Whether you love to go all out for every holiday or just acknowledge the passing of each day, you can use these ideas to create stronger bonds between you and your pet. The more you spend meaningful time with your pets, the better you'll both feel. Take advantage of any type of special occasion to make the day extra special for your furry loved ones.