Five ways to celebrate St Patrick's Day with your dog

It's St. Patrick's Day and many people are getting into the spirit by dressing up in green, decorating their homes with shamrocks, and indulging in traditional Irish food and drink. But what about our furry friends? Can they join in on the festivities? Specifically, can dogs partake in St. Patrick's Day celebrations? 

The short answer is yes, dogs can join in on the St. Patrick's Day fun, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure their safety and well-being.

First and foremost, it's important to remember that dogs should never be given alcohol, no matter how much they may beg or plead. Alcohol is toxic to dogs and can cause a range of serious health issues, including vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing difficulties, and even death. So, if you're planning on enjoying a pint of Guinness or a glass of whiskey on St. Patrick's Day, make sure your dog doesn't get anywhere near it.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some traditional Irish foods can be harmful to dogs. For example, corned beef and cabbage may be a popular St. Patrick's Day meal for humans, but it's not something dogs should eat. Corned beef is high in salt, which can lead to dehydration and other health issues in dogs. Cabbage, while not toxic to dogs, can cause gas and stomach upset if eaten in large quantities. Other Irish dishes to avoid giving your dog include soda bread, shepherd's pie, and Irish stew.

So, what can you do to include your dog in your St. Patrick's Day celebrations? Here are a few ideas:

1. Dress them up in green: If you have a dog who doesn't mind wearing clothes, consider dressing them up in a green outfit or St. Patrick's Day-themed collar or bandana. Just make sure the clothing is comfortable and doesn't restrict their movement or breathing.

2. Take them for a walk: If the weather permits, take your dog for a walk around your neighborhood or a nearby park. This is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, and you can even look for four-leaf clovers or other signs of spring along the way.

3. Make them some homemade dog treats: Instead of giving your dog traditional Irish foods, whip up some homemade dog treats that incorporate green ingredients like spinach or kale. Just make sure the treats are dog-friendly and don't contain any harmful ingredients like chocolate or raisins.

4. Have a St. Patrick's Day-themed photoshoot: If your dog loves posing for the camera, consider setting up a St. Patrick's Day-themed photoshoot. You can use props like shamrocks, leprechaun hats, and pots of gold to create a fun and festive atmosphere.

5. Snuggle up and watch an Irish movie: If you and your dog would rather stay in and relax, why not snuggle up on the couch and watch an Irish-themed movie together? Some good options include "The Secret of Kells," "Brooklyn," and "The Commitments."

In conclusion, dogs can definitely be included in St. Patrick's Day celebrations, as long as their safety and well-being are kept in mind. So, whether you decide to dress them up in green, take them for a walk, or snuggle up for a movie, there are plenty of ways to make your furry friend feel like part of the St. Patrick's Day fun. Just remember to keep the alcohol and traditional Irish foods out of their reach, and you'll both have a happy and healthy holiday.