Their favorite.
Their birthday.

Chase's helpful, eager nature makes a good opening. A greeting can be as simple as the birthday child receiving a welcome from a rescue pup who is ready for a job. Some families like the birthday child to be introduced as the newest team member, while others prefer a calmer hello for shy guests. Discuss these ideas with the team: whether the greeting should focus on the birthday child, whether guests should be invited to call for help, and how long the first moment should last.

A junior rescue mission gives children a clear goal that suits this theme. Optional ideas include a simple search game where children look for a hidden friend, a teamwork task where each child holds one part of a rescue plan, or a short call-and-response where guests answer a pup's signal. Ask which activities suit your child's age and whether the group would enjoy taking turns or working together. Because every activity is adaptable, the team can shorten, repeat or swap parts to match the mood of the room.

A visit of at least one hour gives room for a greeting, a few missions, a quiet moment and a closing thank-you. Consider placing the most active game in the middle, followed by a slower task such as helping a pup find a pretend item or sharing a thank-you for the team. Ask the performer how they like to transition between activities and whether guests can sit down to rest. Some parents prefer a small seating area for younger guests, and you can raise that when you discuss the visit.

Before the visit, confirm what the performer needs on arrival, such as a clear entry point, a quiet place to change, and how the birthday child will be introduced. Ask whether the performer can work with your chosen room layout and whether a parent should stay nearby. Share the birthday child's name, the number of guests and any sensitivities, so the team can plan a visit that feels welcoming from the first moment.