Calling all pet lovers! Enjoying the holidays isn’t meant for people only-let’s get our pets in on the fun too. They’re part of our families and we couldn’t love them more-so let’s use this as another excuse to do what we do best-spoil them.
Easter is coming soon, so it’s the perfect time to pamper your pet. Why not try a DIY Easter Basket filled with all of their favorites? Creating your basket can be quick and easy or you can go all in with more elaborate preparations. Either way, your pet will feel loved and special this Easter.
Don’t worry, we did all of the heavy lifting for this one, including items to avoid. All you have to do is follow along and take note of all of the useful tidbits to create your own DIY Pet Easter Basket. If you have any last minute questions check out our Frequently Asked Questions at the end.
Now let’s have some fun!
What Are Easter Baskets for Pets?
You’re probably familiar with traditional Easter baskets for children filled with treats and other goodies. Watching kids participate in Easter egg hunts is a joyful experience filled with excitement and cheer. Just like kids, pets enjoy treats and goodies, too! Witnessing your pet’s excitement when you give them their Easter basket will be absolutely heartwarming.
What to Avoid
Before deciding what you want to include in your pet’s DIY Easter basket, here are some things you want to avoid to prevent any unwanted or dangerous situations:
1. Chocolate
Chocolate can be harmful to many pets, including dogs and cats. Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be lethal to many animals by disrupting their metabolic system. When putting together your pet’s DIY Easter basket, opt for their favorite treat or snack and avoid any treats for humans. Especially those with chocolate.
2. Plastic Eggs
Adding plastic Easter eggs to your pet’s basket can be dangerous. Many pets, especially young ones, love to chew on everything. Pieces of these plastic eggs could get caught in their throat or, worse, create a blockage in their stomach.
3. Fake Grass
While fake grass can make the basket look more appealing, it can be dangerous for your pet’s health. If your pet swallows fake grass, it can get stuck in its digestive system, resulting in a trip to the vet and an uncomfortable stomach.
Six Ideas for DIY Easter Baskets for Pets
What you include in your pet’s DIY Easter basket is up to you. Here are some of our top favorites.
1. A Pet-Safe Basket
When putting together a DIY Easter basket for your pets, use a pet-safe basket of your choice. There are many baskets to choose from, but beware that your furry friend can hurt themselves by chewing on certain varieties. Avoid popular plastic woven options or wicker, as the pieces can become untangled and stuck in their throat or stomach. A sturdy one piece plastic or canvas option is best.
2. Easter Bunny Collar
A colorful Easter-inspired collar is perfect for your pet to celebrate the holiday, especially if they’re not fond of dressing up in costumes. If you want to get the most use from your collar go for a generic spring print that will last long after Easter is over.
3. Cute Animal Plushies
Cute and snuggly animal plushies are a great way to complement Easter baskets for dogs and cats. Some Easter stuffed toys include chicks, bunnies, or baby ducks. If you’re pet is more destructive consider a tough chew toy instead. Beware of toys stuffed with plastic or foam beads and avoid those at all costs. The small pieces are dangerous for pets. Choose toys stuffed with soft cotton instead.
4. Delicious Treats
Both kids and pets love delicious treats. Grab some of your pet’s favorite treats, or snacks for their basket this year. If you can find them, Egg-shaped treats are another great addition to the holiday. If you’re really ambitious you could make homemade pet treats in festive Easter shapes.
5. New Toy
Consider adding a new toy to the basket. Look for a ball, chew toy, or tug toy for a dog. Maybe a new yarn ball for a cat or a new bell for your bird cage. Choose something your pet will like best.
How to Assemble DIY Easter Baskets for Pets
Before adding any goodies to your pet’s DIY Easter basket, you may wish to add some decorative holiday flare. To do this, feel free to decorate the basket with colorful ribbons or bows. However, if you do so, ensure that your pet doesn’t chew or swallow any of these decorations.
In addition, you may choose to put your pet’s name on their basket to make it extra special. We love a little personalization.
Next comes the stuffing. Traditionally, you would add colorful confetti or tissue paper to stuff the basket. Instead, stuff your pet’s basket with an Easter-themed blanket that they can nap on later.
Finally, add the collar, treats, toys, or other goodies to your pet’s Easter basket. Remember to place the largest items at the back of the basket so everything can be seen easily. Rearrange them until everything is perfect.
Now you’ve got the perfect DIY Easter basket for your furry friend!
Fun Easter Activities for Pets
Here are some fun activities you can enjoy with your pets this Easter:
1. Plan an Easter Photo Shoot
Celebrate this festive holiday with your pet by planning an Easter-themed photo shoot. Use Easter decorative items to create your preferred theme. You and your pet (if they’re comfortable with it) can even wear costumes or matching colors.
Snap a few photos to share with family and friends. If you get a good one you can frame it and use it as part of your annual Easter décor.
2. Go For a Picnic
If the weather permits, you can plan an Easter-inspired picnic. This is an exciting activity for you, your pet, and the whole family. Pack Easter-inspired snacks for you and your loved ones and pet-safe goodies for your furry friend.
3. Obstacle Course
This is a fun activity to get the kids involved in the planning. Arrange an indoor or outdoor obstacle course for your pet. These can be simple or elaborate, depending on the personality of your pet.
Get out your hamster’s ball and let him/her race around the living room. Create a new maze for your pet mouse complete with Easter drawings on the walls. Use brightly colored hula hoops and balls for a dog’s outdoor course. Get out the laser pointer and hold a glow-in-the-dark game for cats. The choice is yours!
Final Thoughts
When creating DIY Easter baskets for pets, include Easter-themed collars, delicious treats, pet-safe pieces, and adorable Easter-related plush toys. Most importantly, avoid chocolate, plastic eggs, and fake grass, as these can be harmful to your furry pal. In addition, feel free to plan Easter activities for you and your pet, including a relaxing picnic or a festive photo shoot.
