You & Your Pet

MAKE IT A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS WITH YOUR BEST FRIEND

It’s that time of the year again when the air is crisp, the streets are filled with bright lights and homes begin to come alive with the excitement and joy of the Christmas season.

Every family has their own traditions and over time these traditions can often change. More and more families are including their dogs in the festivities which has increased in the different places welcoming our four-legged family members throughout this period.

Here in North Wales, our pets are our family which is why there are so many places that welcome dogs. We have gathered a small list of festive activities that dogs and their humans can get involved with this December.

Turning on the Christmas lights. Why not bring your fourlegged friends down to see the Christmas lights being turned on in your area? Make an evening of it, take some toasty hot chocolates and some treats for your dogs while absorbing the evening’s festive atmosphere.

You could book onto the Ffestiniog Welsh Highland trains for a magical train journey this December, taking in some of the most beautiful views. Some of the trains will be beautifully decorated, therefore carrying your dog onto the train is advised to protect curious dogs from playing with some of the delicate objects throughout the carriages. Santa Claus and his elves will be seen handing out gifts inside the magical Carriage Grotto.

If you are feeling energetic, head to Llandudno where you and your pooch can enjoy a festive run. December 3rd will see a parade of Santa’s getting ready to run 5km starting at the North Shore Pier. However, running isn’t for everyone, you can still join in and cheer the crowd along or stroll at your own pace.

Not into running? GreenWood Family Park is a great place to bring some Christmas magic into your world. Follow the festive trail through the mystical forest filled with shimmering

lights. Dogs need to be supervised at all times and kept on a short lead. Unfortunately, they cannot enter the Woodbarn café & play area. Want to do some festive shopping? Try the Snowdonia & Local Christmas Market. It is a great afternoon out based in Betws y Coed. This small village loves nothing more than their four-legged visitors. Why not explore the stunning views Betws has to offer with your dog and finish your day

with a walk around the Christmas markets? You will be guaranteed to pick up some authentic treasures which will be great as gifts for yourself or others.

One place you and your best friend are always welcome is The Dog Park in our Abergele store. This is a great place to head to throughout December, especially when the temperatures drops. Our team will be getting into the spirit of Christmas so why not join them? It’s a great place for pup dates, getting together with your pooch’s favourite pals and having a small Christmas party for them in the park. We also have some delicious festive treats for both you and your dog.

Remember to be a responsible pet parent in places open to the public. Pack a bag for your dog with treats, water, poo bags and perhaps a reflective collar, lead or torch to make

other walkers and dogs aware of them when out and about.

If you have any further questions regarding how to involve your dog in the festive cheer this winter, then please do get in touch with us either via our social channels or pop into one of our stores and have a chat with a team member. n

Ashlee is the social media and marketing assistant at petplace. Animal obsessed, she has a fondness for all living things and the environment using her creativity to build awareness. If you follow petplace on social media you will no doubt have interacted with Ashlee, she loves engaging with their customers and, most importantly, seeing all your wonderful pets.