DIY Christmas Fun for You and Your Pet

The holidays are all about slowing down, spending time with the ones we love… and yes, that definitely includes our furry family members! If you’re looking for simple, safe and joy-filled ways to sprinkle some festive magic into your pet’s December, here are our favourite DIY ideas to try at home.

1. Frozen Festive Treats (Safe & Simple!)

When the weather gets warm, a little frozen snack goes a long way.
For dogs: blend watermelon, strawberries, and/or natural plain yoghurt (no xylitol!) and freeze in silicone moulds.
For cats: freeze tuna water, low-sodium chicken broth (no onion/garlic), or tiny flakes of fish.
Tip: always keep ingredients pet-safe and low-salt.

2. Paw-Print Ornaments

A perfect keepsake for the tree, or gifts for the family.
Use air-dry clay, roll it out, gently press your pet’s paw into it, add their name with a toothpick, a hole for some ribbon, and let it dry. If you don’t have air-dry clay, there are simple corn starch recipes like this one that you can make with pantry items (these are all safe for your pets paws, just don’t let them eat it…).
Finish with some paint if you like, a ribbon and hang!

3. DIY Christmas Toy Box

Upcycle toilet rolls or scrap fabric into enrichment toys (played with under supervision, of course!)

• Stuff a toilet roll with kibble and fold the ends. Cats love this one, too!

• Plait strips of fabric into a soft tug toy.
  Super budget-friendly, and mentally stimulating.

4. Christmas Snuffle Hunt

Hide small treats or kibble around the lounge room, under cups, in a folded towel, or inside a safe cardboard box. You can even use a muffin tray with tennis balls on top, covering the treats.
Dogs and cats love using their noses and brains - this is a great way to burn energy on hot days, or before guests arrive or cooking begins.

5. Festive Photoshoot at Home

Grab a Santa hat, a Christmas tea towel, or a string of battery-powered fairy lights (supervised only!) and set up a cute little backdrop - or even just a plain sheet, you can always edit later.
Keep sessions short, use lots of treats, and let your pet lead so it stays fun - not stressful.

6. DIY Pet Stocking

Sew or glue together two pieces of felt, personalise with their name, and fill with a few treats, a new toy, and maybe a bandana or chew for Christmas morning.
Kids love helping with this one too!

7. Festive Bandana (No Sew Needed!)

Grab some funky lightweight cotton fabric from the Op Shop, and cut a triangle from it (or a few if you’ve got room for spares and gifts). Tie it loosely around your dog’s neck for a little holiday glam.

8. Christmas Movie & Cuddle Night

It sounds simple, but pets adore routine and togetherness.
Create a comfy space, grab some blankets, throw on a holiday movie, and enjoy a quiet night with pats, a few treats, and low-stress, family festive vibes.

Merry Christmas from Our Clinic to Your Family

Whether you’re crafting treats, making ornaments, or setting up silly photo shoots, Christmas is the perfect excuse to slow down and make some memories with your pet.
Wishing you and your furry friends a safe, happy, and joy-filled festive season!