The days are cold, the nights are filled with twinkling lights, and your furry friend’s tail is wagging as we feel the magic of the holiday season taking over. From photos with Santa (and a few of his companions) to leaning into the season of giving, there are several ways to celebrate the holidays around town with your pets.
‘Tis the season of giving
Lights of Love from the Nevada Humane Society offers both a way to donate to the rescue organization and a potential heart-warming gift idea for the animal lover in your life. During December people can recognize a current pet or one who has passed away by purchasing a $10 light that will honor the pet and be displayed within the adoption center. The lights are available for $10 each and a certificate acknowledging the pet is also provided.
Who doesn’t love to shop? You’ll spot giving trees scattered around town that benefit several rescue organizations. Trees have information about furry friends who will spend the holidays in the loving care of the adoption centers of local rescues. Trees are provided by the Nevada Humane Society and by Pet Station at various locations. You can pick a tag from a tree to support a specific animal’s emotional, medical or enrichment needs from $10 or more.
Giving a gift of unconditional love
Rescue organizations have many pets looking for loving homes during the holidays. Making a lifelong decision to add a new furry family member is a big choice, but it can be very rewarding and add an element of unconditional love to your home.
The SPCA of Northern Nevada will be holding a fee-waived adoption event on Dec. 14 at Lithia Reno Subaru.
The Nevada Humane Society, with two locations, one in Reno and one in Carson City, encourages people to give pets as gifts as long as it is done responsibly, thoughtfully, and recognized as a lifelong commitment. Their adoption counselors act as excellent matchmakers and can help guide folks through the process.
Other rescue organizations include Res-que, Canine Rehabilitation Center and Cat Sanctuary, Pawsibilities, and more. Each rescue would certainly appreciate your support.
All dressed up with a few places to go – Holiday Pet Photos
It’s Santa!! (I KNOW HIM!) The SPCA of Northern Nevada’s Thrift Store, located on Moana Lane in Reno, offers pet pictures with Santa, free of charge, on Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The line usually isn’t long, and the volunteers are always cheery and bright. Be sure to walk around the aisles with your pets to see if you find a treasure or two. The digital photos are free and any purchases you make support the rescue organization, so you’ll be helping to save lives.
You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch! Santa (& Grinch) Pet Photos with a twist, benefiting Res-que, a local non-profit rescuing and rehabilitating abandoned and neglected animals, takes place on Dec. 14, from 12 to 4 p.m. at Natural Paws Pet Supply Store on Wedge Parkway in Reno. Your pet can have their photo taken with the green, mean Mr. Grinch or the man himself, Santa. A printed copy of the photo will be given to you on the spot. Plus, you can sip a delicious glass of wine while your pets get pampered and help the Grinch’s heart grow. A unique moment you’ll be sure to cherish for years to come, this event has a suggested donation of $10 per pet photo and $10 per wine tasting. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
Pet Station, with many locations throughout Reno, northern Nevada, northern California and Lake Tahoe, also offers pet photos with Santa (and potentially a few other guest stars like Mrs. Claus). Complementary pet treats and digital photos are available. The photo ops bounce between eleven of Pet Station’s locations throughout the month, including five locations in Reno. Check Pet Station’s website and social media to find specific hours of participation.
Honorable mentions
A popular holiday tradition, The Nutcracker Ballet by the A.V.A. Ballet Theatre from the Nevada Arts Council, will again be performed at the Pioneer Center in downtown Reno. While pets are not welcome in the venue, you can enjoy a special four-legged performer. A rescue dog from the SPCA of Northern Nevada will grace the stage during each performance, Dec. 20-22.
Going holiday shopping? Don’t leave your pooch at home. The Outlets at Legends Shopping Mall in Sparks is dog-friendly and most of the stores allow dogs inside so your best friend can be right by your side as you browse for that perfect gift.
The SPCA of Northern Nevada will be holding a fee-waived adoption event on Dec. 14 at Lithia Reno Subaru.