4 tips for hosting a fun holiday party for your pet

Why stop at just a stocking for Fido? This year, celebrate your companion's special place in the family with a fun holiday party. These tips will make your four-legged friend's bash a success.

Many animals love to be outside where they can run around with their friends. So if you live in a temperate climate, choose a dog park, backyard or rooftop terrace for your venue. If the weather's going to be cold and snowy, find an indoor location that doesn't have a carpet so you can easily clean up afterwards.

Since cats and dogs don't always get along, invite only one or the other. Also, stick with animals you know get along with your pet. You don't want an aggressive animal to ruin the fun for everyone else.

Don't forget that the pets will bring their human companions to the party. Think about them when you're planning the menu. Also, think about whether or not to allow guests to bring their children. It all depends on how much you think you can handle.

A fun way to infuse the spirit of giving into the celebration is to ask guests to bring with them a donation for a local pet shelter. And don't forget party favors for everyone. A great idea that everyone will enjoy is to provide disposable cameras so guests can take photos to remember all the merriment.

Choose a place where dogs can be let out, and provide supplies for their owners to clean up after them. Have lots of toys around for the animals to share. If your pet has a favorite toy, put this away so others don't play with it. Also, remember to set out plenty of bowls of cool, fresh water.

Remember to plan a few exciting party games. Think of a few creative twists on traditional party games, like musical chairs for dogs, races, a best-dressed pet contest and bobbing for hot dogs.

Pets love treats, but they can't eat many ingredients found in people food. Check with the pet owners to see if any animals on your guest list have special dietary needs. Broiled or grilled meat like chicken or steak are sure to please a hungry crowd. Be sure to never serve dogs anything with chocolate, onions, macadamia nuts, walnuts, raisins, grapes or artificial flavors.

Your guests and their companions are sure to enjoy themselves at such a special event. With these creative ideas, you're sure to throw a holiday pet party that no one will forget.