How to Take a Pet's Picture With Santa

Ho, Ho, Ho -- what better excuse to show off your furry family member than in a Christmas card posing with Santa? Or even if you just want a festive holiday photo to put on the fireplace -- come November and December -- many pet supply stores and malls around town will give you the chance. But we all know it's not as simple as plopping Fluffy or Fido on Santa's lap -- and having them say "cheese treats" -- there are some things you'll need to know.

Instructions

    • 1

      Decide if you would rather take your pet to a place that sets up appointments with Santa or has you stand in line for first come, first serve.

    • 2

      Bring along your pet's favorite treats or toy as a reward for good behavior or as a bribe to get your pet to behave.

    • 3

      Walk your pet after the car ride to do his business in order to prevent accidents inside or on Santa's lap and to also work off some steam from being cooped up in the car (of course this applies only to dogs or cats that are on leashes).

    • 4

      Let your dog sniff St. Nick or your cat size him up to get acquainted, and try to make sure your pet settles down a bit instead of immediately walking away.

    • 5

      Ask the photographer where he or she wants your pet to look. Stand in that spot holding a treat or toy within your pet's view and keep calling your pet's name to get her to focus. A squeaky or jingle toy will probably work best, and if your dog knows the "Sit" and "Stay" commands--by all means use them.

    • 6

      Thank Santa and the photographer when the session is over and reward your pet for being "Mommy or Daddy's good little boy or girl." Make some copies and send some out to the relatives to brighten their holidays.