Here Comes Santa Paws! Where to Get Photos of Fido with Santa in 2020

Posted by Jessica Roberts

While Dr. Fauci put us all at ease when he announced that Santa Claus has "innate immunity" from COVID-19, gathering for photos with Kris Kringle and his helpers is looking a bit different this holiday season. Check out these pet-friendly options for new and creative ways to safely interact with the big guy and still get your traditional photos of Fido with Santa in 2020.

Be sure to review this “nice list” of tips for getting the most precious portrait of your Christmas canine with jolly old St. Nick before your big day.

1. Start Fresh - Take a tip from the pros and bring your pup’s comb and some pet wipes with you so he is perfectly groomed for his photos. And don’t forget to shine up his pearly whites to capture those sweet smiles.

2. Dress to Impress - If you want to add a little extra pizzazz to her pic, a classy Christmas dress (make that a festive bow tie for the gents) or reindeer antlers are always a great addition for the occasion.

3. Bring the Treats - The secret to getting award-winning puppy grins? Reward your good boy’s behavior (or bribe him) with some of his favorite snacks.

4. Get Involved - Put your pooch at ease and capture her attention by standing where she can see you. If she’s a bit camera shy, ask if you can pop in the photo with her! If you're the one taking the shot, make sure to get down on her level for the most angelic angle.

5. Embrace the Imperfections - Sometimes, the silliest Christmas pics make the best holiday memories.

6. Spread Cheer - Sharing a sweet, silly, or sentimental photo of your pup with Santa is the best way to spread holiday cheer. Make sure to #BringFido for a chance for your furry elf to be featured.

1. Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's

Various Locations
These puppies' first Santa experience. Photo by Facebook.com/bassproshopsbrokenarrowok

At Santa's Wonderland inside Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's store locations, Fido can pose for a free photo with the top elf, Mr. Claus, while practicing social distancing. Their innovative setup includes a Magic Santa Shield that provides a glare-free clear protective barrier at all times to allow for a contactless experience.

Advance reservations are required for all guests and can be made online. Spots are limited to allow for appropriate physical distancing and additional cleaning between each visit. Santa will be in-store until December 24. You’ll receive a free 4x6 studio-quality portrait of your dog with St. Nick, and other photo packages and Christmas cards are available for purchase and instant print at the store.

2. Hang With Santa and Goats

Lancaster, PA
Santa and goats and an Amish Christmas Market, all in one day! Photo by The Amish Farm and House

Baby goats, Santa Claus, and hot cocoa ... need we say more? The Amish Farm and Home in Lancaster, PA is hosting a Photos with Santa & Goats on the Farm event where you can have your family Christmas picture taken - including your four-legged family members - alongside baby goats in Santa’s sleigh. After posing with the goats and the G.O.A.T., enjoy fun pet-friendly activities on the farm and shop for last-minute Christmas gifts at the market. Come hungry, because The BBQ Barn at the Amish Farm and House will be serving up lunch one last time for the season.

The event is happening from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 19. Masks are required when taking tours and when entering buildings, and visitors are asked to social distance while they're on the property.

3. Virtual Pet Pics with St. Nick

Photo by Portland Pet Stores

If getting on-site with Santa is just not feasible this year, you can still get your annual photo of Fido with the man in the red suit. Virtual photos with Santa events abound, and some are even designed specifically for pets!

This COVID-Safe Holiday Pet Photos with Santa event puts your jingle pup in a photo holiday scene with Papa Noel. All you need to do is choose your background and upload a photo of your crew, and they'll provide you with a high-quality photo and a special festive video. Proceeds from the event help support the Portland-based Brown Hope and The Pongo Fund.

Other virtual holiday photo options designed specifically for your pet include Pet Photos with Santa by Create Holiday Magic, which also offers a live virtual experience with Santa Claus and PetSmart's Spoil and Snap promotion, where you can find free Santa photo frames on the PetSmart® mobile app.

4. Claus Smiles for a Pet-Friendly Cause

Greensboro, NC
Picture your pet cheesin' with this crew! Photo by Facebook.com/brookhavenmillfarm

Brookhaven Mill Farm is hosting a meet and greet with Kris Kringle for a good cause. At Pet Photos with Santa, you bring the camera and the canines, and the Farm will supply Santa and the adorable setting. Mrs. Claus will be on hand to assist if you want to be in the shot, too. A photoshoot is $5, and all proceeds benefit Guilford County Animal Control. A donation box will also be set up to accept any dog toys, blankets, pet food, litter or cleaning supplies to benefit the shelter animals. The Snack Shack will be open to serve hot and cold food and beverages, and guests on two legs and four are encouraged to walk around and visit the farm.

The event will be held from 12 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 19. The Farm requests that guests follow social distancing guidelines and wear face masks. Dogs must be leashed while exploring the property.

5. Local Shops Hosting Father Christmas

Various Locations
Ho, ho, woof. Photo by Unsplash/Duffy Brook

Local businesses around the country are finding safe ways to host Santa in-person for pics with your pet this holiday season. A few upcoming events include:

Pictures with Santa Paws - Clarksville, TN

Pet Photos with Santa - Sharpsburg, PA

Pet Photos with Santa - Brentwood, CA

Pet Photos with Santa - Lombard, IL

Pet Photos with Santa - Las Vegas, NV

Are you taking Fido for photos with Santa this year? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by @radiorose.