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Valentine’s day is not just for the romantics. It’s the perfect time to show our furry friends just how much we care about them. As dog owners, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as giving a gifting your pooch with new merch and watching their tail wag incessantly. Unfortunately, many of us faced financial hardship the past year, and the high price of dog toys suggests spoiling our pets on the 14th would require a significant raise or a personal loan.
Luckily, there are plenty of budget-friendly and DIY options to spoil your pet that will get that tail pitter-pattering. That way, no matter how much you’re able to spend on your pup, they’ll still be treated like the royalty they are.
1. Create a sensory box: Grab an old box and fill it with sensory items from around the house and sprinkle treats or kibble around the items to give your pup hours of fun.
2. Take an extra-long walk: Your dog will love you for the sniffage and extra mileage, bonus points for a trip to the dog park!
3. Give your pup turndown service: Nothing says luxury quite like turndown service at a fancy hotel. Give your best friend the same treatment by tucking them in with their favorite fluffy blanket.
4. DIY treats: A spoonful of peanut butter, little bits of chicken, and frozen carrots all make great treats that you can create yourself. Your dog won’t know the difference between high-priced organic and dollar carrots.
5. Give your pooch a spa treatment: Dogs love a good massage. Gently rub their back from the top of their neck to the base of their tail in circular motions for an extra special bonding treat on V-day.
6. Sign up for free samples: Companies offer free samples of their products with simple email sign-ups. Enter your email, snag the loot, then unsubscribe to the marketing emails to avoid being tempted to make further purchases.
7. Shop clearance racks: Celebrate Valentine’s day a few days after the 14th and grab some of the holiday-themed treats and toys for a fraction of the cost at big-box retailers.
8. DIY pet toys: There are countless blogs that share do-it-yourself tutorials to create toys for your dog. The best part is many of the toys don’t require new purchases and you can use everyday items around the house to make something special.
Spoiling your pup on a budget doesn’t have to end with Valentine’s day. Try these 10 ideas to show your dog love year-round:
