Through the past few months of the pandemic, many of us have been pulling out all of the stops when it comes to entertaining ourselves.

From art projects to YouTube travel, we are opting for new, fun indoor activities to keep us busy. Our pets also have a serious case of cabin fever and need daily exercise and enrichment to keep them from becoming listless, unhealthy or overweight, and bored.

The good news is that your friends at Highway Veterinary Hospital have some cool new games and activities that will entertain even the most discerning of pets. Read on to learn more!

8 Great Indoor Pet Activities for Your Fur Friend

Since movement and fun are important to the health and well-being of your pet, you don't have to ditch those when you can't get outside. There are many things you and your bestie can do when the weather stinks or you're otherwise stuck inside.

1. Learn something new together - There are some great options in online group classes for pets and people. You can learn how to dance together, zen out on downward dog during a doga class, or try your hand at some DIY homemade treats or meals for your pet.
2. Play an indoor game of fetch - Yes, you can still play that favorite backyard game, but just switch to a soft ball or toy to throw. Pull away the furniture in the living room and toss the toy! Or, use a big space like a garage or rec room.
3. Buy some puzzle games - Food-based puzzle games are especially enjoyable for your pet. The challenge is to get small treats or pieces of kibble out of the toy. Your pet's brain will be active, and this is a good way to slow down a quick-eating pet.
4. Teach new tricks - Old dogs can learn new tricks. There are several commands you can teach your pet to keep them active and engaged. Tricks like beg, sit up, rollover, and so on are fun for your pet who wants an extra challenge. After you have mastered them, make a video. We'd love to see their new skills.
5. Set up an agility course - there are some great agility courses that can easily be made using things lying around the home. Set up open boxes, kiddie pools filled with balls and toys, poles and chairs for jumping, and other obstacles. You can also purchase a ready-made agility course online, too.
6. Build a catio - Your cat will love the addition of an extra, screened-in space to look at birds, play, and relax. Catios are essentially screened-in patios that can be made as a standalone to use in the yard, an extension of a porch, or as a window unit. There are multiple plans available online to put your DIY skills to work.
7. Use your pet's nose for a scavenger hunt - The nose knows, as you know. Put your pet's Sherlock Holmes skills to the test by hiding various treats, toys, or pieces of their kibble around the house. Then get them to go scout it out with their keenest sense, their sense of smell.
8. Dance with your pet - Your pet may never have the moves of Fred Astaire, but they will definitely get into the groove if you put on some tunes and dance. Many dogs will hop on hind legs or circle around you if the music is right and the excitement of dancing is in the air. It's a fun time for everyone in the family, too.

We're Only a Phone Call Away!

During the COVID-19 standstill, we are here for you and your pet. We are currently open Mondays through Fridays with varying hours.

We recommend that your pets stay current on any long-term medications, their heartworm prevention, and their flea & tick prevention. Rabies and Leptospirosis are zoonotic diseases; therefore, we strongly recommend keeping current with these booster vaccines, too.

If you have any questions about your pet, including their vaccine status, just give us a call at (301) 249-2005.