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. Speaking for Spot
© Dr Nancy Kay
The purpose of the book Speaking for Spot something I very much agree with; being a advocate for your pet. The goals are many: teaching people how to know when their pet is sick, find a veterinarian that works for your pet and you, informing people about medical procedures, diseases and conditions, straight talk about money, and finally, how and when to know it is "time" to say goodbye.
2. Pet Photo Blanket
courtesy Keepsakes Etc.
While I had heard of photo blankets, I had never seen one up close and personal. I submitted a photo of my pets, Herman the cat and Sophie the dog, to be made into a photo blanket. I was dismayed that I couldn't find a high resolution of this memorial photo, but was very pleased with the final results.
3. Pet First Aid Kits
image 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. Pet first aid kits may be purchased or you can build your own.
4. Comfortable Pet Beds
Pet 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.
5. Kong Dog Toys
image 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.
6. Pet odor and Stain Removers
image 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.
7. Pet Placemats
Pet 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.
8. Through A Dog's Ear - Book and Starter CD
Joshua Leeds & Susan Wagner DVM, MS
This book and CD are very affordable and a great value for those who love dogs and those who want to reduce stress. The information presented is an important introduction to thinking about sound and assessing the noise pollution in our everyday lives. I use the CD to calm my dog and to help me focus when I have work to do that requires a high level of concentration.
9. Pet FURminator Tool
by FURminator
This is an excellent tool for keeping your pet mat-free, and may help reduce hairball problems in cats. These tools are more expensive than other grooming tools, but are a great investment in a quality tool that often shortens grooming time and will be a comfortable experience for your pet.
See this tool in action: photo gallery of the Cat FURminator
10. Personalized Pet Gifts
image 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.
