Celebrate dog moms

While some people cringe at being called a Cat Mom or Dog Mom, most enjoy hearing a woof or meow equivalent of “I Love You!” So join the other Pet Moms in celebrating this Mother’s Day with your fur babies, and enjoy cuddling with your kids.

Redefining Mother’s Day

Fidose of Reality says that pet moms are a special breed. Some families have a mixture of pets and kids, while others prefer animal companions. The American Pet Products Association estimates that pet owners spent around $55 billion on their pets in 2013, the bulk of which was spent on food, followed by supplies, veterinary care, grooming, and boarding.

If you define Mother’s Day as a way to celebrate and appreciate someone who cares for and nurtures others, then it’s time to recognize pet moms in that category!

Why Pet Moms Do What They Do

Pet ownership can bring about frustrations, the test of patience and the aforementioned financial cost—so why do pet moms do it? Most will say that the unconditional love and companionship that one gets from a pet is unmatched by that of any other relationship. Beyond the emotional benefit, pets also help their owners by encouraging more exercise, socialization, and compassion for others.

Time to Celebrate

If someone you or someone you love is a pet mom, celebrate Mother’s Day on the pets’ behalf. Dogs and cats find it challenging when it comes to sending cards, but there are many ways you can celebrate Mother’s Day with them and your entire family:

• Go Explore: Dogster suggests packing up a nice lunch and some treats and heading out to a park as a family. Try a new trail or just get away from the city and find an open field to enjoy.
• Send a Simple Thank You: Send a nice card to all of the pet shelters in your city, thanking them for their efforts to help animals looking for a home. Or if you have a favorite shelter, send a surprise delivery of flowers from an online retailer like FTD. Some shelters hold open houses on Mother’s Day, and a fresh bouquet of flowers at the front desk will be a nice touch.
• Say Cheese: Schedule time with a pet photographer and arrange a photo shoot with you and your pet. Select your favorite photo and have it framed in your home and set alongside your other family photos.
• Make a Donation: Pet shelters and rescues are in regular need of donations to keep their efforts afloat, so make a monetary donation in your pet’s name, or in your pet mom’s name to a local shelter.
• Enjoy a Pet-Friendly Staycation: More and more hotels and resorts are opening their doors and welcoming pets—many even offer pet amenities such as pet bowls and beds, “yappy hour” social hours and pet sitting services.

Allison Drew is a health and wellness expert, mother and dirt biker.