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Holiday Gift Ideas For Pets & Their People

By Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM, About.com

Personal pet preferences and safety concerns should be considered first when selecting presents for both pets and people who love them. This list of gift ideas offers "safe" choices that should be suitable for all of the pets and pet lovers on your list.

1. Pet First Aid Kits

Pet First Aid Kits - image courtesy of Pricegrabberimage courtesy of Pricegrabber
A thoughtful gift for the pet lover and their pet(s)! A great idea fro home and for travel. Pet owners can use these kits for taking care of minor injuries and for the transport time it takes to get to the veterinarian in a serious emergency.
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2. Comfortable Pet Beds

Pet Beds - image courtesy of PricegrabberPet Beds - image courtesy of Pricegrabber
Pets love to be comfy just like people do! In my house, the cats seem to "take over" the dog beds. This is a great gift for each pet in the house. Beds lose their support after lots of wear and washing. And for older pets and pets with medical conditions such as arthritis, a comfortable warm bed is essential for overall health.
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3. Kong Dog Toys

Kong Dog Toys - image courtesy of PriceGrabberimage courtesy of PriceGrabber
I have personally used Kong toys for my dogs over the years, and have been happy with the durability, safety and basic "dog enjoyment" that these toys provide. I recently checked back at my pet supply store and was happy to find that these toys are made in the USA (to reduce worries about lead or other unsafe contaminants). They offer many varieties of size and "strengths" for puppies, seniors, and serious chewers.

4. Pet odor and Stain Removers

Pet Odor and Stain Remover - image courtesy of Pricegrabberimage courtesy of Pricegrabber
Not a particularly "fun" gift to receive, but as pet lovers know, a necessary one! Find natural formulas to remove pet stains and odors from furniture and carpets.
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5. Pet Placemats

Pet Placemat - image courtesy of PricegrabberPet Placemat - image courtesy of Pricegrabber
Fun and functional! These easy-to-clean placemats help catch stray bits of food that your pet may leave behind and help keep floors clean. They also help keep bowls stable for those "enthusiastic" pets with big appetites. Pet dishes are also a great gift -- I recommend stainless steel or ceramic for durability as well as the best choice for pets who may be allergic (or chew up) plastic dishes.
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6. Personalized Pet Gifts

Personalized Pet Mug - image courtesy of Pricegrabberimage courtesy of Pricegrabber
Pets are part of our families and our lives. Find all sorts of personalized gifts, customized with your pet's name and image. Here you will find shirts, socks, doormats, coffee mugs, and many more personalize-able gift ideas.
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7. Cat Scratching Posts

Cat Scratching Post - image courtesy of Pricegrabberimage courtesy of Pricegrabber
A gift that is fun for cats and fun for the people who get to watch them play on their new scratching post! These items come in many shapes and sizes -- something for every cat to be happy with and get some exercise at the same time.
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8. Pet Photo Frames

Personalized Pet Frame - image courtesy of Pricegrabberimage courtesy of Pricegrabber
Pet owners love taking photos of their pets. Keep that funny photo of your dog on your desk or remember that special pet who has already gone to Rainbow Bridge. Photo frames always make a nice gift.
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9. Personalized Pet ID Tags

Pet ID Tags - image courtesy of Pricegrabberimage courtesy of Pricegrabber
Keeping current ID on a pet may someday save their life. Add cell phone and email info as well as the "traditional" phone and address info for the best results. Choose what fits your pet best from a selection of custom ID tags, leashes and colors.
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10. Wild Bird Feeders

Bird Feeder - image courtesy of Pricegrabberimage courtesy of Pricegrabber
Many pet lovers also appreciate the wild birds as well. I have several bird feeders outside, and love watching the various birds who come to visit. Plus, it gives the indoor cats something to watch!
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