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Guide-Reviewed Items for Pets and Their People

Gifts to Consider for Pets Lovers or for Yourself

By , About.com Guide

This is the index of all Guide-reviewed pet items, books, toys, music and gift ideas for the animal lovers and veterinary types on your list. Please click on the "read review" link for the full story on each item.

1. Cat FURminator Tool

FURminator deLuxe Cat deShedding tool by FURminatorby 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

2. Jive Media iPhone app for Pet First Aid

Screenshot of the Jive Media Pet First Aid and Emergency InfoJive Media
Staying calm and being prepared can make the difference in an emergency situation, and this in-depth application will help on both counts. I would recommend not waiting for an emergency though; this is good reading and video-watching any time you find yourself with extra time on your hands.

3. DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) Calming Collar for Dogs

DAP Dog Appeasing Pheromone Calming Collar for Dogs - Image courtesy of PriceGrabberImage courtesy of PriceGrabber
The DAP collar was definitely worth it for my dog. I think DAP is something to consider for a variety of canine behavior problems, including: noise phobias, separation anxiety, territorial behaviors, new people or pets, car travel anxiety, and anytime there are "unpredictable" events that your dog may react to.

4. The Complete Healthy Dog Book

The Complete Healthy Dog Handbook by Betsy Brevitz DVM © Workman Publishing© Workman Publishing
This is my review of "The Complete Healthy Dog Book" by Betsy Bervitz DVM. This book, published by Workman Publishing, spans almost 500 pages and covers everything dog-related, from puppyhood to senior dogs. Is this a useful guide for your bookshelf? Find out in this review.

5. Speaking for Spot

Speaking For Spot © Dr Nancy Kay© 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.

6. Pet Photo Blanket

Herman the cat and Sophie the dog Photo Blanket by Keepsakes Etc.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.

7. Through A Dog's Ear - Book and Starter CD

Through A Dog's Ear - Book + CDJoshua 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.

8. Through A Dog's Ear: Vol I - Music CD

Through A Dog's Ear - Music CDJoshua Leeds & Susan Wagner DVM, MS
This CD is well worth a try for owners seeking to calm their dog during thunderstorms/fireworks, ease separation anxiety, and add some calm to stressfull environments such as boarding kennels.

9. Through A Dog's Ear Driving Edition: Music to Calm Your Dog in the Car

Driving Edition: Music to Calm Your Dog in the CarSounds True
This CD is worth a try for all canine car travelers, especially those dogs that are stressed even by the thought of a car trip. If medications can be avoided with this music and the behavior modification tips listed in the CD booklet, all the better for your dog's health.

10. Pet ER Guide: Directory of pet emergency facilities in the US

Pet ER Guide by Melinda LordMelinda Lord / Trailer Life Books
Geared for the RV traveler, this book would be a worthwhile addition to the library of anyone who travels frequently with their pets. This book may be redundant for those travelers who have an Internet-enabled cell phone or other web device, but it will always 'work'; no internet connection necessary!

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