HOLIDAYS
HOLIDAYS
Sometimes the best childhood friends are the furry ones. Why not celebrate these friendships with a party where pets are welcome to tag along. A kids and their pets party is a great theme for a birthday, end-of-school bash or playgroup activity. Think about how much fun kids will have talking about and showing off their furry friends.
Note: You don't want someone to feel exclude just because he or she doesn't have a pet. Ask close friends and family with more than one (good-natured) pet to bring them all. This way a child without a pet gets to be an animal owner for the day.
Since this party involves a special request for guests - kids should bring animals - the invitation should be just as unique. From the design to the envelope, this tips for kids and their pets party invitations leave no doubt about the fun plans in store.
- Address the invitation to the child and his pet.
- Use a paw print stamp or stickers to decorate the envelopes.
- Send invitations cut in the shape of a dog bone.
- Use animal-related phrases for wording such as, "We're having a doggone good party."
- If the party is for a birthday, choose a photo invitation with a picture of the birthday girl and her pet.
At an exciting party like this one, kids may find it hard to stop and eat. Don't worry about fancy recipes. Stick with easy, familiar food they can eat on the go.
- apple wedges with peanut butter
- granola bars
- cheese cubes
- tortilla roll-ups
- cupcakes decorated like cats and dogs
Feeding the kids is only part of the equation at this party. The four-legged friends are going to want to eat, too. Have plenty of water available for them and offer these snacks.
- a variety of dog and cat treats
- homemade dog biscuits
- cat cookies
- if you know there will be other animals besides cats and dogs, have special treats for them, too.
Including pets in party planning is a unique experience. Take advantage of the situation with this activity that lets the pets be the stars. While the animals may not be amused, a pet fashion show is a silly, creative and memorable event for all the humans involved.
- Create a runway by laying down a long piece of fabric or a plastic tarp. Set up a couple of rows of chairs on each side.
- While guests are eating or doing other activities, assign number to participating pets and get some fun bio facts from their owners.
- When it's time for the show, have the owners walk or carry their pets down the runway.
- Have a few adults act as judges and award prizes. These don't have to be actual gifts; simple ribbons or certificates will do. If possible, make sure each contestant wins something. Some ideas for awards include:
- Best Dressed
- Most Creative Outfit
- Funniest Outfit
- Ugliest Outfit
- Most Human-Like Outfit
While you prepare for a big party activity, such as a pet fashion show, you'll need something to entertain little guests, both furry and not. Serve snacks during this time and try these ideas.
- Set up a simple photo booth where kids can have pictures made with their pets.
- Take turns deciding which pet and owner look the most alike.
- Get out the art supplies and let kids draw pet portraits.
- Set up a play area and include toys for kids and animals.
Welcome a New Pet
with a Pet Shower
with a Pet Shower
How To Throw a Pet
Birthday Party
Birthday Party
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Moms of Dogs
Moms of Dogs
