Santa Paws is arriving at PetSmart for free in-store pet photos

PetSmart brings holiday photo traditions to pets with Paws & Claus photo event 
and free Mixbook photo book Photo: Courtesy of PetSmart

PHOENIX, Dec. 4, 2023 — Santa Claus is is coming to town at PetSmart stores nationwide to pose for a photo with pets on the “nice” list. Dec. 16-17, pet parents can celebrate the season and capture a photo of their pet with Santa at the Paws & Claus photo event. Reservations are required and are now open to the public. To find a local Paws & Claus event and to book an appointment, pet parents can visit www.petsmart.com/santa-photo-days.html.

To help pets sleigh their holiday photos, PetSmart training expert Jodie Havens, CPDT-KSA, shares four tips to ensure yule be s-mitten with the final result:

Create a festive look: Make sure pets put their best paw forward by selecting an outfit or accessories to complement their photo with Santa, like a holiday striped hat and scarf for cats and dogs, snowman costume for reptiles or a Christmas tree ugly holiday sweater for small pets.

Jingle out the holiday jitters: Help pets expend extra energy by playing at home or walking through the PetSmart aisles before their appointment to capture their beautiful – and calm – smile.

Capture their attention: Create a picture-perfect moment by using an eye-catching holiday-themed toy or making noises, such as calling a pet’s name, to ensure they look at the camera during their time with Santa.

Have treats on hand: Ensure a paw-sitive experience by rewarding pets with special holiday snacks like BRRR Bark Cookie Dog Treats after every few photo frames. Be sure to praise pets after their photo session with lots of rubs and additional treats.

Once photographed, pet parents can turn the image into a keepsake. PetSmart Treats Rewards members can receive a photo book gift from Mixbook*. Members will receive a promo code for Mixbook via email after the event so they can start creating their photo book to forever cherish the memory. Additionally, Treats Rewards members can earn 3X Treats Points** for purchases made on the day of their appointment by using their Treats Rewards email to check in. For more information on the free pet photos with Santa event and PetSmart’s holiday shop, visit PetSmart.com.* Terms apply. See the email sent after the event for details.