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November 26, 2007
 When was the last time you threw a party for your dog? Your dog is an easy guest of honor to please. Planning and throwing a party for your dog helps your children learn skills like scheduling, making choices that may be different from their own but better for someone else, and appreciation.
“But, ” you say, “our family dog’s birthday is in April.” That’s OK, there is plenty to celebrate. Have a dog party to welcome home your new best friend, obedience school graduation, or a neighborhood dog show. Invent a special day that celebrates your dog’s cute ears, waggy tail, happy wiggles, or howl that can wake the neighbors – they’re all worth making a special day.
To start, sit down with your kids and make a list of what is wonderful about your dog. Help your children be very specific about what they love. If they have a hard time, start talking about the very specific things you love about your kids. They’ll catch on. From this long list you choose one attribute to celebrate.
Now, decide how much to spend on your dog’s party. It isn’t necessary to go shopping, and a zero budget is just fine, but make sure it is a choice.
Next, choose what kind of party it will be. Is your dog rambunctious and up for an energetic party? Is your dog more reserved and apt to enjoy a quiet afternoon with the family? Whatever you decide is best for your dog, have your children make cards, make up songs, and wrap gifts for your dog. It’s good to have children use their creative muscles on this because, after all, your dog will be happy with the attention whether or not you give Grammy award winning performances.
“Gifts?” you say, “but you said no shopping!” Right. Wrap a dog treat in wads of yesterday’s newspaper, let him tear it apart and eat the treat, and he’ll be as happy as someone else might be if you showed up with the Hope Diamond. After edible and squeaky things, dogs simply like your time and attention.
Next, help your children make a loose schedule for the party: how long it will be, when you will play games, when you will give gifts, etc. Encourage your children to stick to the plan even if their focus starts to get wobbly. Sticking to a reasonable schedule is a life skill that will serve them well as they grow.
All that’s left is to have fun!…
…and clean up. Surprise your kids with one more game. Make clean-up a game by rewarding for the biggest pile of paper, the cleanest dishes, and the best attitude. Everyone gets a reward for being good at something.
Dog parties are easy and fun, and with a little effort they are full of teaching moments. For more ideas on family dog parties, and to get your FREE Animal Wow Dog Party Fun Book, contact Animal Wow!
And if you need more reasons to have a dog party, studies show that for most people, having a pet offers health benefits such as reduced stress, lower cholesterol, more exercise, and less depression. But you already knew that. Throw a party to celebrate your Dr. Dog!
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