Why Your Pet Deserves an Easter Basket Too
Easter is a time for family, fun, and festive treats, but why should the humans have all the fun? If your pet is part of the family (and let’s be honest, they absolutely are), then they deserve a little Easter magic too. Making an Easter basket for your dog or cat is more than just a cute idea. It can help you bond with your pet. It also rewards their good behaviour. Plus, it lets them join in on the seasonal fun!
Whether you’re a seasoned pet parent or welcoming your first fur baby, we have everything you need to build a safe, joyful, and health-conscious Easter experience for your pet.
What is a pet Easter basket?
A pet Easter basket is a curated bundle of pet-safe gifts, treats, and toys, chosen to surprise and delight your furry companion. Think of it as a little care package tailored to their preferences, play style, and wellness needs. It’s also a great excuse to refresh worn-out toys, try some new enrichment options, or indulge in a treat or two (without spoiling their diet).
If you’re stuck for ideas, browse our selection of dog toys and cat toys to get inspired.
Why celebrate Easter for dogs and cats?
More pet owners across New Zealand are including their animals in holiday traditions and with good reason:
- Including your pet in special moments helps strengthen the bond you share
- New toys and treats provide mental stimulation and enrichment
- Holiday play and exploration support physical and emotional wellbeing
- It’s a chance to reward positive behaviour in a fun, seasonal way
Celebrating Easter with your pet doesn’t have to mean chocolate and hot cross buns. In fact, it shouldn’t. But with a little planning, you can create a pet-friendly Easter experience that’s just as exciting and much healthier.
What to put in a pet Easter basket
(Safe, fun, and guaranteed to earn wags or purrs)
Every Easter basket should reflect your pet’s unique needs and personality. Here are some ideas to get you started:
For dogs
- Soft plush toys or squeakers in playful shapes great for indoor fun
- Healthy options like natural treats, dental treats, or training and reward treats
- Interactive enrichment toys that challenge their mind while rewarding good behaviour
- A restock of grooming staples like shampoo, brushes, or paw balm
- A fresh blanket or cosy bed for those post-egg-hunt naps
If you’re planning a hunt, swap out edible goodies for their favourite plush toy or chew toy. It’s just as exciting, without the extra calories.
For Cats
- Feather wands, rolling balls, or catnip-stuffed plush toys
- High-quality treats from trusted brands in freeze-dried or crunchy formats
- A new scratching post or pad to help keep claws busy
- Grooming tools to support coat health and bonding time
- Hideaway beds or tunnels for napping and play
Make sure everything in the basket is age-appropriate, durable, and suitable for your pet’s breed and size.
Easter Safety Tips for Pets
Easter celebrations can present hidden dangers for pets. Here's how to keep your furry friend safe and healthy over the long weekend:
- Chocolate is toxic to both cats and dogs so keep it well out of reach
- Skip artificial grass or shredded plastic fillers, which can be a choking hazard
- Never feed hot cross buns the raisins and nutmeg are especially dangerous
- Supervise your pet with any new toys or chew items to avoid accidents
For a more in-depth look at keeping your pet safe, read our full guide: Keep Your Dog Safe This Easter.
Hosting a pet-friendly Easter celebration
Looking to take things a step further? Here are a few fun and safe ways to include your pet in the festivities:
- Set up a backyard or indoor scavenger hunt using their favourite toys or a few fun dog treats
- Create a DIY Easter-themed photoshoot with pet-safe accessories
- Invite a few pup pals or fellow cat lovers for an Easter picnic
- Try your hand at baking simple, homemade snacks using pet-friendly ingredients
Want to set up an egg hunt your dog will love? Don’t miss our step-by-step guide: How to Have an Easter Scavenger Hunt for Your Dog.
And if you’re keen to whip up some homemade treats, be sure to follow our top recipes for Pet-Friendly Easter Treats.
Celebrate with heart (and a tail wag)
Easter is a time of giving, gratitude, and joy, and your pet deserves to be part of it. Whether it’s a simple surprise, a full-blown Easter basket, or a backyard hunt, celebrating the season with your pet is a beautiful way to show them how much they mean to you.
So this year, skip the chocolate eggs and opt for a basket filled with tail-wagging, purring-worthy delights. Because when it comes to family, they deserve the very best.
