Skip chocolates, give affection to pets

If you were planning to ask your dog to be your Valentine, keep in mind that Love Your Pet Day is right around the corner, Feb. 20.

Giving your pet a little extra love has never been easier, with pet stores the size of supermarkets filled with toys, treats and food. But you do not have to spend a bunch of money to spread the love to your furry, scaly or feathered friends, because what most pets want more than anything is affection and stimulation.

“What you are trying to do for Valentine’s Day is a small part of what you should do for your pet all the time,” said Paul Cook, owner of the Chula Vista Camp Run-a-Mutt on North Fourth Avenue. Run-a-Mutt is a cage-free dog daycare and boarding house.

To really make the 20th a special day, take your dog to the park, the beach or just on a nice walk. Play with your cat and give plenty of scratches behind the ears. Just go out of your way to do those pet activities you do not always have time to do.

“A lot of people work, work, work. They love their dogs but they don’t have time to really go walk,” said Cook. “Half of a dog’s mentality is in motion. As long as they’re in motion and they’re active with buddies, they’re socializing. So it’s all about being social for them and they become better pets than when they’re not doing this.”

Treats are a simple way to put a smile on the mug of any pet. When picking out treats it is important to keep the animal’s health in mind. Ask a pet store clerk to help you choose healthy, natural options.

Animal lovers should also remember that over-feeding your pet, particularly with rich treats and new types of foods, may cause upset stomach and stinky pets.