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As Christmas and New Year’s Eve approach, many dog owners wonder how to include their pets in the festivities. With dog-friendly events, seasonal getaways, and parties designed for pets and their humans, there are countless ways to celebrate the holidays with your dog. Here’s a guide on where to go, what to do, and the best Calmshops products to bring along, ensuring both you and your pup enjoy the holiday season to the fullest.
1. Dog-Friendly Christmas Markets and Festive Fairs
Christmas markets are one of the most festive activities of the season, and luckily, several in the UK welcome well-behaved dogs. York Christmas Festival, Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market, and Bath Christmas Market are popular options that allow leashed dogs. Enjoy browsing stalls, sipping hot drinks, and sampling seasonal treats while your dog enjoys the sights and smells.
Calmshops Product Recommendation: Adjustable Dog Harness
An Adjustable Dog Harness from Calmshops provides your dog with comfort and control in crowded places like Christmas markets. Its secure fit helps you keep a close hold on your dog, ensuring they’re safe and relaxed amid the holiday hustle and bustle.
2. Pet-Friendly Winter Getaways
For a cozy winter escape, book a dog-friendly cottage or lodge. The Lake District, the Scottish Highlands, and the Cotswolds are perfect for holiday retreats with pets, offering scenic walks, cozy accommodations, and, often, dog-friendly pubs. Many rentals come equipped with fireplaces, and some even provide dog beds, making your dog feel just as pampered as you.
Calmshops Product Recommendation: Waterproof Dog Blanket
A Waterproof Dog Blanket is a great addition for travel, providing your pet with a warm and dry spot to relax in any accommodation. This blanket protects furniture and keeps your dog comfortable, making it perfect for use in holiday cottages and lodges.
3. Christmas Dog Meetups and Play Dates
Organizing a Christmas-themed dog meetup is a fun way for your dog to socialize while you celebrate with fellow dog lovers. Many dog parks and community centers host seasonal meetups where pets can dress up, play, and enjoy festive treats. Check for local dog meetups in parks or community centers, and if nothing’s available, consider hosting your own mini get-together with friends and their pets.
Calmshops Product Recommendation: Dog Running Belt with Bungee Lead
The Dog Running Belt with Bungee Lead is ideal for active events like dog meetups. This hands-free lead allows you to stay engaged with others while keeping your dog safely by your side, making it a perfect accessory for festive group activities with other pets.
4. Dog-Friendly Christmas Tree Farms
A visit to a Christmas tree farm can be a delightful experience for you and your pet. Some farms in the UK welcome dogs, like Bishops Offley Christmas Tree Farm in Staffordshire and Dartmoor Christmas Trees in Devon. Walking through rows of pines and firs with your dog is a festive way to spend a winter afternoon, and many farms also sell hot drinks and holiday treats.
Calmshops Product Recommendation: Portable Dog Water Bottle
Keeping your dog hydrated during outings is essential, and the Portable Dog Water Bottle is a perfect accessory for holiday excursions. It’s lightweight and leak-proof, ensuring your pet has access to fresh water during your Christmas tree hunt.
5. Christmas Lights and Festive Walks
Many towns and parks put on impressive holiday light displays that are dog-friendly, especially if you visit during off-peak hours. Kew Gardens’ Christmas at Kew and Blenheim Palace’s illuminated trails are two popular locations that often welcome leashed dogs. This makes for a beautiful, peaceful holiday evening activity that you and your dog can enjoy together.
6. Dog-Friendly New Year’s Eve Parties
Several dog-friendly pubs and venues host New Year’s Eve events with pets in mind. Some London pubs, like the Prince of Peckham, throw dog-inclusive New Year’s celebrations, while other pet-friendly venues around the UK hold quiet, festive gatherings. If your dog isn’t fond of loud celebrations, consider hosting a small New Year’s gathering at home with pet-friendly snacks, music, and a cozy setup.
Calmshops Product Recommendation: Automatic Stop Bark Collar
An Automatic Stop Bark Collar from Calmshops can be helpful for New Year’s Eve celebrations, especially if your dog tends to get nervous around new people or noises. This collar provides gentle, automated corrections to help your dog stay calm and focused, making it a great tool for indoor gatherings.
7. Holiday Baking for Dogs: Christmas Dog Treats
Baking holiday treats for your dog is a fun and festive way to celebrate together. Simple recipes using dog-safe ingredients like peanut butter, oats, and pumpkin are easy to make and a delight for dogs. Make a batch of holiday-shaped treats or even create a dog-friendly gingerbread house. You can find numerous recipes online, and many include easy ingredients you likely already have.
8. Attend a Charity Dog Walk
Around Christmas, many animal charities organize dog walks and events to raise funds. These are great for socializing with other dog lovers while supporting a worthy cause. Organizations like Dogs Trust and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home often host seasonal events, so check for a dog walk near you. These events are fun, and you’ll also be contributing to the welfare of other animals.
9. Cozy Christmas Movie Marathon at Home
If you prefer a quieter celebration, set up a cozy Christmas movie marathon at home. Create a warm space with blankets and pillows, grab some snacks, and settle in for holiday favorites. Movies like Lady and the Tramp, The Secret Life of Pets, or classic Christmas films make for great entertainment. For an extra treat, make a small batch of homemade dog popcorn using plain air-popped kernels.
10. Winter Beach Trip
Many UK beaches lift dog restrictions during the winter, so a Christmas or New Year’s Day beach trip can be a fun, refreshing outing. Dogs love the open space, and with fewer crowds, it’s a peaceful spot to walk or play fetch. Beaches like Camber Sands in East Sussex and Rhossili Bay in Wales are popular winter destinations for dog owners.
Holiday Safety Tips for Dogs
Celebrating Christmas and New Year’s with your dog is wonderful, but it’s essential to keep them safe. Here are some tips:
- Avoid Dangerous Foods: Chocolate, grapes, and alcohol are toxic to dogs. Make sure holiday treats are out of their reach.
- Create a Quiet Space: If guests are visiting, set up a quiet area with your dog’s bed, toys, and a water bowl so they can retreat if needed.
- Decorations Awareness: Ornaments, tinsel, and lights can be enticing to dogs but may be hazardous. Secure them out of reach.
The holiday season offers countless ways to include your dog in the festivities. From visiting Christmas markets and dog-friendly New Year’s Eve events to cozy movie nights and charity walks, there’s something for every dog and their owner. By bringing along helpful Calmshops products, like the Dog Running Belt with Bungee Lead, Waterproof Dog Blanket, Portable Dog Water Bottle, and Automatic Stop Bark Collar, you’ll be prepared for a joyful and safe holiday with your best friend.
