Mummy Matters – Parenting and Lifestyle

Winter is a beautiful time to binge-watch your favorite series and enjoy the serene hush of snow and frost while cuddling your pooch. In fact, I’m guessing that’s already in your plans. So, what other activities do you have on your itinerary that you’re planning to enjoy with your pup this winter? Don’t tell me you haven’t thought about it yet. I’m just kidding! I know that’s why you’re reading this blog. Without wasting much of your time, here are some crazy, p-awesome ideas to make this winter the most memorable winter you’ve ever had. Turn Your Backyard into a Frosty Wonderland Have you ever thought of transforming your backyard into a winter wonderland before? I guess you’ve not. Well, this winter is going to be lit! Because this is one idea your pup is sure to love. All you have to do is create a snowy obstacle course with tunnels, jumps, and mounds of snow for your furry friend to explore. Dogs love to navigate through the snow, and watching your pup bound through the fluffy white terrain will surely bring a smile to your face. However, you must take some precautions if your furry friend has joint issues (this is normal among larger breeds like Rottweilers and Retrievers). In this case, getting dog leg braces for your pup should help support her joints and allow her to have some fun without any unnecessary strain. Also, ensure your pup is comfortable with the cold; some breeds adore the snow, while others might need a cozy doggy sweater. So, check in with your vet to sort that out. To add an extra layer of fun, hide some treats in the snow for your pup to discover. This turns the snowy adventure into a treasure hunt, stimulating her senses and adding an element of excitement to her playtime. It’s a great way to keep your pup active and engaged while enjoying the winter wonderland you’ve created. Enjoy a Cozy Movie Night with Your Pup Who doesn’t love to watch movies during the winter while snuggling on the couch with their best cuddle buddy? Choose a selection of your favorite movies or catch up on that TV series you’ve been meaning to watch. Create a cozy spot with blankets and pillows for both you and your furry friend. Dogs often enjoy the rhythmic sounds of human voices, so don’t be surprised if your pup seems just as engrossed in the storyline as you are. Prepare some dog-friendly treats to enhance the movie night experience. Make sure the treats are safe and healthy for your pup, and consider creating a “pupcorn” mix by air-popping plain popcorn and sharing it with your furry friend. She will love it and thank you with a wiggling tail. In fact, she’ll be looking forward to your next movie night together. Treat Your Pup to a Spa Day Winter can be harsh on your pup’s paws and skin, which is why you have to treat her to a spa day at home during this period to keep her feeling pampered and comfortable. Start with a gentle paw massage to soothe any dryness or irritation. Next, use a pet-safe paw balm to moisturize her pads to protect them from the cold and salt on the sidewalks. After the paw massage, move on to a relaxing grooming session by brushing her coat to remove loose fur and stimulate blood circulation. If she enjoys bath time, then treat her to a warm bath with a mild dog shampoo for a delightful experience she won’t forget.  However, be sure to use lukewarm water and thoroughly dry her after the bath to prevent her from chilling. Finish off the spa day with a comfortable and warm bed and a blanket for your pup to snuggle into. Have a Winter Picnic Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. If you were hoping I’d keep sharing more indoor winter ideas, I’m sorry to ruin your expectations because this is the exception. What can be more exciting than bundling up in your warmest gear, grabbing a thermos of hot cocoa, and heading to your local park for a winter picnic with your pup? Well, you guessed right—not so many things. Besides, most dogs love the crisp winter air, and a change of scenery can be invigorating for both of you. So, why not give it a try? Pack a picnic basket with dog-friendly snacks and some of your favorite winter treats. Choose a spot with a view, spread out a blanket, and enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors together. Your pup will appreciate the opportunity to sniff around, and you’ll get to relish the beauty of nature in its winter glory. A totally unforgettable experience! Try Meditating with Your Pup Have you ever thought about meditating with your pup before? Well, winter is an excellent time to try this out, and your pup can be the perfect companion. Find a quiet and comfortable space in your home, light some candles, and settle into a relaxed position. Invite your furry friend to join you, allowing her to find a comfortable spot. As you focus on your breath and clear your mind, notice the calming presence of your pup. Dogs are intelligent and intuitive and can sense when you’re relaxed or meditating. The gentle rhythm of their breathing or the soft sound of their contented sighs can enhance your meditation experience and help you focus better. Wrapping Up Winter is coming, and I’m sure it will be filled with many memories for you and your pup. These ideas are to inspire you to make the most of the coming season, so feel free to tweak them as you like to suit your lifestyle and environment. All the best!