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Guide-Reviewed Items for Pets and Their People

Gifts to Consider for Pets Lovers or for Yourself

By Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM, About.com

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. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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!

7. FURminator Deshedding Brush Tool for Grooming Dogs, Cats and Horses

The Furminator Grooming ToolPhoto courtesy of Pricegrabber
An excellent tool that is worth the cost for those who live with pets and the hair they shed. Especially useful for "double-coated" (with dense undercoat) pets. Great for grooming at home and for the "in between groomer visits" for those who go to groomers regularly. The short fine tines reduce the chance of injury to pet and groomer.

8. Nintendo DS Game: Paws and Claws - Pet Vet 2 Healing Hands

Pet Vet: Paws & Claws 2THQ Games
I have played "be a vet" games before, and was eager to try out this new game for the DS. Since I am not a DS expert, I enlisted the help of my 8 and 10-year old kids; both avid DS fans and animal lovers. The kids tried out the software over several days, then took me on a tutorial lesson. I wrote this review from the perspective of a parent and as a vet.

9. ASPCA Complete Cat Care Manual

ASPCA Cat Care ManualDK Books
An excellent reference book for both new and experienced cat owners. Also a great primer for someone considering adopting a cat or kitten. This book covers interesting facts and health information on cats from kittenhood to old age.

10. Princess Fiona: My Purrsonal Story

Princess Fiona: My Purrsonal Storyshelterpetsink.com
This is a great book for all ages. The fact that it is a true story creates a bond with the viewer and gives a feeling of hope. The humor is catchy and made me smile more than once. All profits from this book actually do help abandoned cats in need of permanent homes.

11. Mini Reviews: Top Pet Products for Cold Climates

Dog bootsphoto courtesy Pricegrabber
Pets in harsh winter climates need extra protection during the snowy, icy winter months. These items will help keep snow and ice at bay and ensure your pet's comfort and safety.

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