Pets are like family, and it’s important to let your pet know how much you love them. February 20th was National Love Your Pet Day; a day to give your pet extra attention and pampering to show them how grateful you are for their love.

In case you missed it, here are some things you can do for your pet this month, or throughout the year, to show them how much you appreciate their love.

Playtime. Does your cat or dog love to play? Dedicate more time than normal to play with your pet. Cats may not always want to socialize, but spending more time doing what they enjoy is a great way to show them your love.

If you have a dog, take them for a long walk or to the dog park. Most dogs love the outdoors, so cater the activity to their favourite thing to do. Some dogs love interacting with other animals, going for a swim or playing fetch. Take the time to spoil them, whether it’s going for a walk somewhere you don’t normally go to or playing fetch for 20 minutes instead of 5.

Treats. What animal doesn’t love treats? Treats tend to be reserved for special occasions or to reward your furry friend for an accomplishment, but now is the time to spoil them. You can do this by giving your pet more than one treat, or by giving them a treat they’ve never had before (of course, make sure they’re able to tolerate it and it’s not toxic for them) . Yum! You could even bake a delicious healthy treat or visit a pet bakery.

Toys. If you’ve been browsing the Internet, you may have come across a video of a pet owner who dressed up as their dog’s favourite toy to surprise them – He must have been a good boy. We understand that not everyone wants to dress up like a big teddy bear, so instead, take your dog to your local pet store and let them choose a new favourite toy.

The best way to show your furry friend how much you care about them is simply to give them your undivided attention. You have become their best friend and all they want is your love. Choose an activity that you know your pet will enjoy and do it as often as you can. There is nothing more heart-warming than seeing your pet’s appreciation for your love and affection.