How to throw a dog birthday party?
In an analysis conducted by Animal Medicines Australia, 40% of Australian households include at least one dog. This is a total of at least 5.1 million pet dogs, making them the most popular type of pet. Also detailed in this report was that over 60% of dog and cat owners refer to their pet as a member of the family. Most of these pet parents spend an average of 3-4 hours with their pets every day.
Given these amazing statistics it is quite likely at some time you may find yourself as the host or attendee of a dog birthday party. Like any other party, as the host you are responsible for setting the theme, activities, music, food and guest list and mood of the event. To make sure everyone has a great time there are considerations you need to make before hand. Lets dive right into our top ten tips:
Tip 1 You may want to prepare two locations. One inside and the other outside. This allows guests have a choice where to mingle and your party wont be put on hold if there is bad weather. Two locations also allow a safe place for any overwhelmed dogs to hang out.
Tip 2 It may be worthwhile to discuss the party with attendees before. Asking about the types of games, treats or locations to consider for their dog.
Tip 3 Send the human guest home with some theme appropriate goodies in their doggie bag. For a pamper party some hand creams or essential oils may be appropriate
Tip 4 Ensure you match the music to the theme of the party. Sometimes music is the easiest way to set the mood of a party. Dogs are receptive to mood
Tip 5 Ensure you speak to party guests once you have heard back from them. This followup can cover off on any catering based questions. With a followup people are less likely to cancel last minute.
Tip 6 Thoughtful details make people feel included. Choose games, music, food or accessories you know people like. The mood you set can help to create talking points and encourages engagement amongst guests. It may be a good idea to ask guests of their expectations before their attendance.
Tip 7 Organize activities to encourage mingling. Activities and planned games offer talking points and opportunities for guests to engage with one another
Tip 8 Be brave to invite a vast array of ages, personalities, new friends and old friends because it encourages more guest engagement
Tip 9 Give your guests something to do. People generally love to help and be helpful. By giving your guests something to do like hosting a game, they have ownership in the outcome
Tip 10 People will generally remember most vividly the arrival at your party. Setting the stage for how you welcome them is important to set the theme and expectation for the rest of the occasion
Would you like to have an indepth look of past parties some of our Doggy Hampers customers have thrown for their dog. For a behind the scenes look, checkout out ten themes for Dog parties ebook.
Doggy Hampers curated dog gift hampers are the perfect gift for any dog birthday, dog get well gift, dog mum gift and any other special occasion. Doggy Hampers specialises in dog and dog owner gifts. Our Dog gift boxes have been featured in the Australian Dog Lover, Channel 7 Sunrise, Doggy Bazar editorials. If your are attending a dog party our Doggy Hampers Birthday Box is a great place to start for dog lover gifts in Australia.
