Monday, December 14, 2015

Holiday Gifts and Pets

Let's just admit it- in December our need for retail therapy typically soars to new heights!  We all want to impress and surprise our family and friends with thoughtful gifts that they need or want.  For many Americans this tradition now extends to our pets.  In a recent poll 95% of American pet parents say that they buy Christmas gifts for their pets.  In light of that interesting statistic, here are a few recommendation we'd like to make on behalf of your furry family.

How about an indestructible dog bed? Beds are a great gift for dogs of all ages- they help geriatric dogs with arthritis feel better when they get up from sleeping, they help prevent pressure point issues in large dogs (called "hygromas"), they help keep small breed dogs of any age warm and are just plain comfy to sleep on.  But, many dogs destroy beds, making this an impossible gift for them.  Fear not!  K9 Ballsitics Dog Beds are guaranteed to be chew-proof, making them an excellent gift compromise.

Approximately 2/3 of adult (over 6 months old- younger cats do not react) are sensitive to the effects of catnip.  The plant is a member of the mint family and causes playful, excited behavior in most cats.  It is not harmful to cats and is available from a number of sources- you can even buy catnip seeds and grow it yourself.  There are a plethora of great catnip toys in the world, but if you are looking for an economical gift for your feline friend, buy a inexpensive bit of catnip and sprinkle it as is on a rug or scratching post.  It's a treat for your cat, but it also incredibly entertaining for you.  Keep your phone handy to capture the antics for online sharing!

Our blog wouldn't be complete without a what not to do for your pet section at the holidays, and so here it comes.  Treats are a great present if you know that your pet can tolerate the ingredients.  It is not a great idea to give lots of new treats on Christmas Day to your pet- the GI disturbance that may follow will be less than festive.  Also, please refrain from allowing your pets to play with wrapping items like curling ribbon during the family gift extravaganza.  Pets love to eat wrapping supplies and they can lodge as foreign bodies in their GI tracts.  And finally, many pets find our Christmas fireworks tradition very frightening!  Please don't bring your pets to festivities where fireworks will be shared.  They will enjoy their holiday more without a noise phobia to worry about.


Have a GREAT HOLIDAY SEASON!!!!

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