Are you and your pets struggling with the cold? Ice? And winds blowing? Gizmo and I want to help all the bored cats and dogs.

Some dogs love the cold and snow. Others would rather stay inside like many of their pet parents. The cats look out the windows and wonder “what’s the big deal” until they touch the frigid window.

Gizmo wants to share his favorites that help bored cats and dogs.

• Gizmo uses his Bob-A-Lot nearly daily. When he needs a little extra treat or is bored, the Bob-A-Lot comes out and he plays. Remember cats can use it too. It comes in a small size for puppies and cats.
• Lick mats are wonderful. Think of a flat plate with bumps or ridges in it with wonderful food spread in it. Gizmo enjoys sugar free apple sauce in his lick mat served frozen! Some have deeper ridges. Here’s a guide on lick mats.
• This Newsweek article on interactive toys has great ideas for cats and dogs.

Need more help for bored cats, check out these ideas:

• My favorite game for cats is to clear off all surfaces in the bathroom. Put a ping pong ball in the bathtub and let the cat have fun. Let the fun begin!
• Make simple toys out of toilet paper rolls with these easy directions.
• More easy toys to make at home in a few minutes.

Need more help for bored dogs, here’s some more ideas:

• Put an empty plastic bottle (the cheaper the better cause they make more noise) in a sock and knot the end. Now throw it and let the fun begin.
• Teach a new trick or fine tune an old trick. Does she do something cute? Make it a trick. Also a great time to review sit, stay, down, and stay commands with really yummy treats.
• For more ideas, check out this great article “Indoor games to play with your dog!”

Now, it’s time for help for bored pet parents!

• Call a friend who you keep thinking about. Your friend will love hearing your voice even if it’s over a year!
• Find a book you wanted to read and give yourself a book holiday. I’m reading some interesting new books.
• Remember the craft you didn’t finish? It’s the perfect time to work on it.
• Clean one drawer or cupboard and find amazing things you forgot.
• Enjoy the time with your pets. They love when you sit with them and quietly stroke them.

Most of all, stay warm, safe, and smile!

Still concerned about your cat or dog and don’t know what to do? Schedule for a free 15-minute consult.