46 www. ReadMPM. com | www. VOICE forRea l Es tate. com | www.MountPl easantBu i lder s . com In a year that saw most people spending a lot more time at home, it’s no surprise that our pets have further solidified their bond with us as bonafide members of the family. According to the American Pet Products Association’s (APPA) biennial National Pet Owners Survey, an estimated 67% of American households had a pet, with 50% owning at least one dog and 34% owning at least one cat. It’s also safe to assume that those pet parents have been spoiling their furry companions with treats, toys, clothing and more. The pet care industry experienced a boom in 2020, with the APPA projecting that Americans would spend $99 billion on their pets by the end of this year. And with good reason. Family pets have become exercise partners, co-workers, playmates, reading coaches for home-schooled children and even emotional support, as families spent many more hours with Fido or Fluffy. These furry family members certainly deserve to be celebrated for all those hours of hard work and cuddles. So, for those pet parents who consider their pets as much a part of their family as their human children, here are some options for celebrating Mother’s Day and Father’s Day with your cat or dog. 1. GO ON A FAMILY ADVENTURE Consider an outing based around your furry friend. The Charleston County park system has several options for exploring the great outdoors with your pet in tow, including Mount Pleasant’s Palmetto Islands County Park. Explore its extensive trail system through a tropical, tidal creekside setting, or choose to launch and paddle a kayak for especially brave doggies. You can also make the drive to North Charleston to check out Wannamaker County Park’s newly constructed off-leash dog park, which features separate large and small dog areas and a splash pad for those hot summer days. Adventurous kitties on leash or in one of those nifty backpack carriers are also encouraged. Find more parks and pet-friendly amenities at ccprc.com. 2. SCHEDULE A CHECK-UP A healthy pet is a happy pet. Take the time to ensure your fur-baby is in top shape and up to date on all BY MERED I TH A . HAGEN Calling All Parents of Four-Legged Children Celebrating Mother’s and Father’s Day With Fur Babies
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