For Pet's Sake Column

If you’re smitten with your kitten or itching to receive a smooch from your pooch, chances are good that you’ll be spending some quality time with your four-legged sweetie this Valentine’s Day. If you don’t yet have anything planned, take heart. Five of my favorite animal lovers and authors have agreed to share their plans for a warm and fuzzy holiday with their huggable hounds and cuddly cats.

Allen and Linda Anderson, authors of Angel Dogs and Angel Cats, (www.angelanimals.net). Although we will offer special treats to each of our animal family – Speedy and Cuddles, our cats, and Sunshine, our yellow cockatiel – we will spend extra time with our newly adopted rescue dog, Leaf. We intend to give him what he loves most in all the world – an extended visit to the dog park. The joy on his face as Leaf meets old friends there is contagious. He has become the host and official greeter, spreading his special brand of Cocker Spaniel love around to everyone who enters those sniff-a-licious gates.

Carla Genender, author of DogSense: 99 Relationship Tips from Your Canine Companion, (www.dogsensebooks.com). I've noticed that my dogs, Zack and Quincy (each one a 14-pound Yorkshire Terrier!), become energized by a change in our routine. So on Valentine’s Day, I will drive to a different neighborhood, and walk them somewhere they have never been. I know they will sniff every blade of grass (to learn who’s been there before them) and try to mark every tree (to leave their calling card for those who follow). And I know they will enjoy every second of it.

Arden Moore, author of The Dog Behavior Answer Book, (www.ardenmoore.com). I consider Chipper to be my “heart” dog. She spent the first two years in various shelters and blossomed into a true canine celebrity with tail-wagging charm. In honor of Valentine’s Day, I will take her on a l-o-n-g walk at the Oceanside harbor. She loves watching pelicans and surfers. Then, we will dine at our favorite outdoor café where I will treat Chipper to a few pieces of broiled fish. At home, I’ll treat her to a soothing doggy massage to ease any muscle aches.

Tim Young, author of Murphy's Safety Songs: Tuneful Tips for Tots and "Spots," (www.murphysbone.com). My Boston Terrier, Murphy, crossed that proverbial Rainbow Bridge on October 23, 2004, but if he were still on this plane: We would start the day with a "wake-up massage," as Murphy sometimes needed a little coaxing in the early hours. Then, a walk to check the morning's "pee-mail," followed by a light (yet hearty) breakfast. A trip to the dog park for running, jumping and scent-based research. PetSmart on the way home for cheese-bones and treats. A long belly rub with soft musical accompaniment, then a nap. By this time, the morning would be almost over.

As for me....I'll be hanging on to a bright, red leash...a very eager Beagle named Guinness attached to the other end. This 11-year-old love bug may stop running and sniffing long enough for me to present her with a handful of heart-shaped treats. Happy Valentine's Day, "Guinnerdoo!"

What do you have planned for your pets on Valentine’s Day? Let Karen know by sending an email message to her at karenleestevens@cox.net.