Suggestions for some Purr-fect Holiday Gifts

When I was young and the holidays were approaching, I made sure that all the animals in our household had a stocking and some treats, even my horse. That was a long time ago and gifting your pets was not as popular as it is today. In 2010, the Associated Press reported that 56% of all pet owners gave holiday gifts to their pets. Currently, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 36% of all US households have dogs and 30% own cats. This translates into a huge amount of gift giving. Both to the pets and to the myriad of pet lovers.

Since I have such a long history of being a pet-gift-giver, I thought I might provide my top ten gift suggestions.

1. Give the gift of safety. Be sure that your household is pet safe and make sure that the gifts you give and the items you take to other households are pet safe. Remember that ribbons and tinsel, potpourri, Poinsettias, chocolates, alcohol, Lilies and many other hostess gifts can prove fatal to pets. Also, pets love to get into purses and bags left on the floor. Be sure all medications, sugarless gums and cigarettes are sealed and kept away from pets. Also, raw dough and antifreeze are common potential toxins. Visit www.aspca.org for more information.
2. Give a gift in the name of your favorite pet or animal lover. Donate to a charity or rescue in your area that benefits animals.  Community Sharing’s Pet Pantry, Meals on Wheels Pet Feeding Program, and local animal rescue organizations (I prefer no-kill shelters) are always in need of your help. Remember, there are horse and exotic pet rescues too!
3. Water. Give a pet water fountain. Pets, particularly cats, enjoy fresh, moving water. Cats are attracted to the flowing water and staying well hydrated is essential to feline health. 
4. Make sure any pet that is lost can be found. Microchip’s allow pets  to be identified and reunited with their owners. They are inexpensive, safe and easy. We recently microchipped a clients tortoise!
5. A Fur-ever Friend. Pets should never be given as surprise gifts. The addition of a new pet should be well researched. Always remember to visit pet adoption groups and rescue leagues to find a new pet.
6. Pretty as a picture. Consider giving your favorite animal lover and their pets the gift  of  a  professional photo session. 
7. Michigan Made products. As they say, Keep It In The Mitt! There are some great Michigan companies that make pet products. I am a big fan of Troys Treats ( ph 248.688.4530), they are locally made with Michigan products and Darwin (my dog) says they are Great!. Visit www.michigan-made/pets/  or http://www.mi-made.com/category/Pets to be inspired by other Michigan Made products.
8. Toys !!! We can’t forget that we all need to have a little fun! Laser pointers for cats and mechanical mice encourage exercise and these toys keep their minds nimble. Be sure dog toys are sturdy and not easily destroyed. Remember, rawhide toys and other ‘food related’ toys, are not appropriate for pets with food allergies.
9. Buckle Up! Using dog seat belts will help prevent injuries that might land you and your dog in the emergency room. Also,  be sure cats are secured in a crate to limit injuries in a car accident. 
10. Finally, give the gift of wellness. Every pet owner would appreciate a gift certificate for pet care at their preferred veterinary hospital. Preventative medical care will help keep everyone happy and healthy.

Have a peaceful and happy New Year!