DIY Pet Enrichment
Treat your pet with something special you can make right at home!
There are many ways you can make a special treat or toy with items already in your home. If you want to give your pet a food-based treat, remember that many common human foods (like chocolate, alcohol, onions, garlic, grapes, and more) can be dangerous to dogs and cats. Here a few pet-safe options:
Donate in Your Pet's Name
Honor your pet by supporting other pets in need.
Want to help care for adorable animals while they wait to find their new homes? Consider donating in your pet's name to DCHS or hosting an independent fundraiser (on your own or via Facebook).
Every dollar helps DCHS provide care and comfort to thousands of animals
every year, both in the shelter and in our community.
Have a Spa Day
Get ready to pam-purr yourself and your pet.
Spa days are a great way to relax and unwind, and your pet will appreciate the extra attention! While you pop on a face mask, grab that brush and give
your pet a thorough brushing. No fur to brush? No problem! You can also give
your pet a massage, manicure and pedicure, or teeth brushing.
Surprise Your Pet With a New-to-Them Toy
A new toy is a guaranteed way to brighten your pet's day.
DCHS’s Adoption Center is filled with fun toys for your pet. Anyone is welcome to stop in and purchase a new toy. You can also swing by Barkins, located in the hallway outside of the Adoptions Center, where you will find a variety of new and gently used pet supplies. Simply pay what you can and take what you need.
Looking to do some thrifting? DCHS Thrift Store, located at 6904 Watts Road, Madison, is filled with quality merchandise at a great price. Stop in and get a gift for your pet and for yourself!
And, of course, our friends at Mounds Pet Food Warehouse have a great selection of new toys for any type of pet!
Create Art
Let your pet be your muse!
You can host a photo shoot right at home. Scope out your space for an area with the best natural light and a simple backdrop. If your pet has a favorite toy or treat, make sure to have those handy. Get your phone or camera and bring your pet out to the stage. Make sure to take lots of pictures and give lots of praise. If you are lucky, you might just get one where both eyes are open! Lastly, don’t forget to watch your pet’s body language. Be sure to give your pet a break or wrap up your photo session when your pet is ready to move on.
After your photo shoot make sure to tag us on Facebook (@GiveShelter) and Instagram (@dchsgiveshelter) so we can see your best friend and admire your art.
Prefer
a professional? Artist David Reck creates custom pet portraits that also
benefit DCHS. A portion from each sale will be donated to DCHS to support local
animals in need. Whether your pet is furry, feathered, or scaly,
he can capture their essence and beauty in a piece of art that you can cherish
forever.
Watch a Movie
Treat your pet to some quality snuggle time.
Does your pet prefer to cozy up and stay in? Grab some pet-safe snacks and watch a movie together!
Did you know the first movie to feature cats came out over 120 years ago in
1894? Since then there have been thousands of movies made featuring pets.
And not just cats and dogs! There are movies that feature all types of domestic animals including, but not limited to, cats, dogs, rabbits, mice, horses, fish, pigs, guinea pigs, cows, rats, birds, and more!
Cheers to Your Best Friend!
However you choose to celebrate, whether it's a long walk, extra cuddle time, reflecting on your time together, or something else, we are sure you will make it a special day!
