Valentines Day for Dogs
On this celebratory day of love, Holidays4Dogs discovered that some folk treat their dogs more than their partners! We also found out some dark rumours about the history of Valentine’s Day and the role of the dog. Read on to find out more.
There is certain debate regarding how, and why, Valentine’s Day originated. One theory takes us back to ancient Rome and the feast of Lupercalia – a festival of fertility.
As part of the celebrations, a goat and a dog were sacrificed. The animal pelts were then used to strike women. This was to increase their fertility, – there’s nothing very romantic about that!
Christians named this day – St Valentine’s Day, in remembrance of two martyrs of the same name. They were executed on the 14th of February during the 3rd Century, by the Roman Emperor Claudisu Gothicus 11.
It wasn’t until the Middle Ages that, throughout Europe, Valentine’s Day became associated with a more romantic love. By 1415 people were sending handmade Valentine’s cards to each other. By the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, Valentine’s Day became a big money spinner, particularly in the United States.
Love me, love my dog.
Pets are very much included in this ‘lovey-dovey’ annual celebration. Last year, statistics by a major pet food manufacturer showed almost half the UK pet-owning population bought their pet dog a present on Valentine’s Day. One in three people spend money on a pet rather than a human partner.
Given the way dogs were once associated with ‘Valentine’s Day’, they certainly get a better deal these days! A quick search online brings up all sorts of gifts people can buy their beloved hounds. From treat hampers, to ‘posh pooch’ wine for dogs, there is a present to show every dog just how much they mean to their family.
Just a reminder; chocolate is very bad for dogs. Only buy dog-safe treats, (not human treats), for the puppy love of your life 😉
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