Erika Davis
February 20th is National Love Your Pet Day, and Chicago is definitely a pet-loving city. In fact, Chicago has been named the number one U.S. city for dog lovers, and one in five households in the state has a cat. At TAWANI Property Management, we’ve always welcomed pets in our Rogers Park rental apartments. Here are some fun ways to honor our furry friends on National Pet Lovers Day – and all year round.
Visit a Dog Park: Dog parks act as a citywide backyard for pets in Chicago apartments. The Chicago Park District has designated dog-friendly areas throughout the city so dogs can run, play, and scamper off-leash. For safety, dogs do need to have a permit and tag issued by a participating Veterinarian. Dogs parents typically enjoy the parks as much as the dogs – they offer a chance for fresh air and socialization with fellow dog lovers.
Get a Pet Portrait: A portrait from one of Chicago’s talented painters or photographers is a great way to capture the essence of your pet while adding art to your home. Kaye Rogers of Rogers Park paints commissioned portraits of people as well as pets, and local studio Van & Bella’s specializes in photographic pet portraits. Pet portraits also make a thoughtful gift for the pet lovers in your life.
Patronize a Pet-Themed Local Business: You can support local business owners for National Love Your Pet Day, too. Enjoy a cup of coffee in the company of adoptable kitties at The Tree House Humane Society Cat Café (reserve a spot online as they do sell out!). For pet supplies, food, and gear, shop locally at Bentley’s Pet Stuff. You can browse the store or order online for in-person pickup. To pamper your pooch, visit Le Barkery & Spa. Your pup can get a bath and spa treatment while you pick up special treats, including custom dog-friendly cakes. Don’t forget to check out our very own Rogers Bark and OZ Animal Hospital.
Help Out a Neighbor: Our TAWANI Property Management community is full of pet owners. To enhance the spirit of community and help out pets at the same time, let your neighbors know that you are available to pitch in if they are under the weather, out of town, or running late to get home. Walking a dog or checking in on a cat takes only a few minutes, but it can be immensely helpful to your apartment neighbors.
Support an Animal Shelter: Thousands of dogs and cats in Chicago shelters need a “fur-ever” home, and animal charities always appreciate the support. Donating to a shelter, volunteering your time, or fostering a pet helps keep these organizations running strong and provides the animals with a better quality of life. If you don’t have a pet, National Love Your Pet Day is a perfect opportunity to consider adopting one. Visit PAWS Chicago and One Tail at a Time to learn more about ways to help.
Whether you choose one of our suggestions or show your love with extra playtime, treats, or simply spending more quality time together, National Love Your Pet Day is all about honoring the unconditional love and joy they bring into our lives. After all, our pets make the world a little brighter, and they truly deserve to be cherished for all the happiness they bring us!
