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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 (by Janet Tobiassen Crosby DVM) 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.

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1. Busy Buddy Kibble Nibble Dog Toy

Busy Buddy Kibble Nibble Ball Toy - courtesy PriceGrabberCourtesy PriceGrabber

This is a great toy to keep dogs busy, even my dogs, who aren't extremely food-motivated. This toy would be ideal for dogs who eat too fast or want to eat all of the time. The large ball will hold 2+ cups of food, so the dog can work eating their "daily meals" for a long time.

2. Thundershirt for Dogs

Sophie wearing the Thundershirt by Janet Tobiassen Crosby DVMby Janet Tobiassen Crosby DVM

This product is based in part on the work by Temple Grandin, noted author, Doctor of Animal Science, and professor at Colorado State University. The thought is that gentle pressure provided by this shirt calms the nervous system. Does it work? I tried it on my own dog Sophie, who suffers from loud noise phobias.

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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.

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