Throwing a party for your pet is just like throwing a party for another family member. You need to consider size and compatibility of your guests. Also, not all animals socialize well with other critters outside the family. Dog birthday parties and even bird birthdays (and those parrots can celebrate birthdays into their 80’s, and that’s in people years) work well. I haven’t heard of a cat birthday party with other cats, but you never know.

So first you’re establishing if it’s just a family member only party or will there be invited playmates and their owners. Socializing with other pet owners is becoming a hot trend, especially for singles and empty nesters. Next is size. Not only the number of guests, but the size of the animal. Big difference between a St. Bernard and a Schnauzer party. A party of 9 or 10 people and their animals is a good crowd.

If your dog attends doggie daycare or goes to a specialized dog park, think about the dogs your dog plays with. Those are the owners that you want to invite.

Either inside or outside keep plenty of towels on hand. Plastic or paper plates keep breakage down. Remember to establish rules on whom or what gets to eat at the table!

Get your invite list and location set. Then, just like a people party, send out or hand deliver invitations.

Think about food, your guests will! Think for people food that your guests could share with their pets, like peanut butter, chicken (not for parrot parties please), hot dogs ( not for Dachshund parties), cheese or cookies. Keep the cake for the owners! Think of some fun shapes, but stay away from chocolate which can be harmful to some pets.

Decorate the yard with colorful bowls so the four legged guests can have plenty of water. You can use the bowls as party favors once filled with toys or treats. Use balloons ( do not tie the balloons on to the dogs collar, it frightens them ), bandanas instead of party hats or even a (disposable) fake palm tree for, you know.

Organize contests, like pet/owner relay races or obedience skills, or even a fashion show. Costume parties are fun too. Searching for prizes can be fun too.

Remember lots of film. Sounds more fun just thinking about it!!!!!!!!!