Dogs Do Holidays, Too!

Did you know that dogs do holidays, too?

Everybody does holidays differently. Some like the hustle and the bustle of the season and have calendars full of parties and events. Others prefer to spend time quietly at home. Some go all out on decorations while others like to keep things simple. I have learned there is no right or wrong way to celebrate the holidays.

The only way is YOUR way! I am spending this holiday season in Paris with KoKo, my 3-lb Mi-Ki whom I absolutely adore and who makes the holidays better when she is by my side (in her SHERPA Bag!). When I created The SHERPA Bag over 40 years ago, I did it with the intention to allow pets to go wherever their owners go. And here I am, in Paris, walking through the beautiful departments of Le Bon Marche with KoKo in my bag enjoying the festive outing with me! My heart is full when I am with KoKo and I know many dog owners can relate to that feeling!

So, this holiday season, I thought it would be fun to share some fun ideas to do with your dog by your side!

Get out and See the Decorations

Dogs love their outdoor time for fresh air, exercise, and mental stimulation. This time of year, many popular places in towns and cities are decorated with beautiful lights (which is nice because it gets dark earlier!). Grab a leash or your carrier and go outside and enjoy the displays with your four-legged friend.

Photo Shoot

Pets are part of the family, so I love when I see them included in holiday cards! Have a festive photo shoot with your dog—even if you don’t plan on sending out cards there is always social media to display the photos! Bring holiday cheer to your friends and family by sharing a cute photo of your pet this holiday season!

Give Back

The holidays are a time for giving. Go through your dog’s toys (it is amazing how many accumulate) and belongings to see what can be donated to a local shelter. Shelters are also always in need of towels and blankets, so check your closets for what else you could donate.

Snuggle Up

Dogs just want your love. There is no better way to show them your love than by snuggling up with them. Pick your favorite holiday movie, a cuddly blanket, and get on the couch and enjoy it with your dog.

Try to slow down and spend time with those you love, including your dog! KoKo and I wish you a happy, healthy holiday season and New Year!

Gayle is the founder of The SHERPA Pet Trading Company, where she single-handedly designed, manufactured and marketed the iconic SHERPA Bag you see everywhere! This carrier, which millions have bought for their dogs, cats and other animal companions, continues to be THE top-selling, prize-winning, globally-popularly soft-sided pet carrier. Further, it is because of Gayle’s advocacy and entrepreneurship that pet travel on airlines is now possible and common. Gayle’s the author of “IT’S IN THE BAG”, which is part memoir and part business book. Gayle is the Pet Ambassador for Silver Disobedience.