Dog Mama

Have a special birthday coming up? Want to celebrate a special holiday with your pooch by your side? Need an excuse to drink champagne before midday? Time to throw a puppy party!

The great thing about a dog lovers’ meet up is you get to meet like-minded people, and your pup gets to play with other doggos to their heart’s content.

These days, we’re all meeting so many dog-friendly people through Instagram and Facebook, that it makes sense to take that friendship off-screen. But how to do it? It’s never been easier to get your own party started …

To kick things off, you first need to decide on a guest list. Obviously being a dog lovers’ meet up, you’re going to have humans and hounds there.

Decide how many people you can accom-modate and then invite from there. If it’s your first party, the more intimate the better—save yourself the stress of an overflowing guest list.

Define your invite list. Want to connect with other dog lovers in your local area? Want a breed-specific get-together? Want to meet your Insta-friends in real life? Use social media to arrange and invite like-minded dog lovers and you’ve got yourself a meetup!

Once you know how many people and pups are coming, decide on a venue that can comfortably accommodate you all and make any bookings required. Local parks, dog-friendly beaches, and pet-friendly cafés make perfect puppy party venues.

Make sure there’s enough space for the puppers to play, and that it’s a safe space away from major obstacles. Water bowls, toilet spots, shaded areas, and access for pets are all things to think about. Don’t forget to have a wet-weather plan!

For food, decor, or activities, keep it as low key or as stunningly styled as you want. Fun dog-themed snacks, decor, photobooths, goodie bags, and activities all make for a memorable event.

• Send out social media reminders closer to the event to make sure everyone is ready or has any last-minute questions.

• Make sure you have an emergency stash of doggy waste bags and treats just in case.

• Consider inviting a few attendees to arrive early to help you set up—especially if you’ve got fancy decorations or lots of food to prep.

• Dress up in style! That goes for your dog too—a cute bow tie or a cool collar is the perfect icebreaker.

• Don’t forget to take photos and videos—capture those memories. For more formal events consider having a designated photographer on hand.

• Last but not least, have fun! These are your people. Get to know them and their pups beyond the screen—you never know, it might be the start of a lifelong friendship.

SAFE PARTY TIPS

Make sure all the dogs on your guest list are healthy, vaccinated, play safely, and are friendly with other dogs.

If you’re meeting new people for the first time, make sure you have friends with you on the day of, and inform them of the party plans, details, and invite list. No one intentionally invites a Craiglist murderer to their puppy party, but best to play it safe.

GREAT PUPPER PARTY IDEAS

Valentine’s Day Party—no better time to show the real loves of your life what they mean to you.

Super Bowl Party—don’t forget to watch the Puppy Bowl first!

Easter Egg Hunt—replace chocolate eggs with dog-friendly snacks.

Halloween Fancy Dress—have prizes for the best-dressed person and pooch pair!

Holiday Party—Organize a “Secret Santa” gift exchange prior so every dog gets a gift on the day.