Pets are definitely on Santa’s list regarding gift-giving during the holidays. According to Chewy:

• 94 percent of all pet parents will be shopping for their pets this year
• 87 percent plan on having a holiday stocking for furry friends
• 58 percent will be wrapping all their pets’ presents to add excitement
• 54 percent will be dressing up their pets over the holidays

The American Pet Products Association (APPA) agrees, and its survey reveals that 73 percent of dog owners and 62 percent of cat owners purchase gifts for their pets.

Holidays and Beyond Pet Fashion

Of course, bandanas, bows, and bowties are always fun, but if you are really in the holiday spirit, you and your dog can show off your matching wardrobe. Spark Paws and ShopDogThreads sell matching hoodies or T-shirts and scarves. Etsy also has a wide variety of fun apparel for pets, including ways to put your dog or cat’s face on everything from socks to beach towels.

You can also spice up your pets’ walking attire with West Paw’s new Holiday Collars and Leashes line. Safe, durable, and comfortable, both collar and leash come in three festive prints. The webbing is made from recycled plastic bottles making both products eco-friendly.

Give the gift of health! 

One of our favorites for dogs is the new Whistle GPS and health tracker. Whistle smart devices translate millions of data points about your dog’s daily behavior into in-depth health and activity insights.

Serve up some holiday treats. 

Pet owners can gift gourmet Gingerbread Dog Treats by Lord Jameson this holiday season. Inspired by a family recipe, these natural treats are made with a tasteful combination of plant-based superfoods, including organic ginger, gluten-free oats, and roasted peanut butter. Santa Paws Treats from Claudia’s Canine Bakery are hand-made with human-grade ingredients and look so good they’ll give the human versions some festive competition. Every package includes 50 cookies, enough to share with pets and their pals.

Cats can get in on the action by enjoying holiday cat treats that taste like a holiday meal. And there are also seasonal treats for rodents, like apple and cinnamon treats.

Let’s not forget the toys!

Being good all year can be “ruff,” so rewarding pets with the Merry Woofmas Plush Toy Collection by Pet Lifestyles and Play is the ultimate gift. The set includes five cheerful toys in the shape of a hangable stocking, a tasty plate of cookies, ornament filled Christmas tree, a tug-able elf, and a silly Santa, and it makes an excellent gift for households with more than one pet.

For cats, The Merry Medley Cat Toy Bundle from SmartyKat is the purrfect toy pack with 16 catnip-filled toys to give cats the stimulation they need and crave.

Rabbits and other furry friends can celebrate the season with willow balls. And if your lizard doesn’t have one already, it’s time for a Penn-Plax lizard lounger.

Make your holidays pet-proof. 

While the holidays can be lots of fun, the way to show love for your furry friends is to ensure your home is safe for them.

Here are three ways to cat-proof your Christmas tree:

1. Anchor your Christmas Tree. The location of your tree should be a reasonable distance from any spot your cat likes to climb or perch on, including cat trees, counters, and shelves.
2. Cover all your electric cords. Chewing a live wire can prevent chewing that may lead to shocks or burns.
3. Block the water from your tree from pet access. Some trees have added chemicals to help them stay green, which can be toxic to pets. Covering your tree base in foil or a tree skirt can prevent your cat from drinking water.
4. Avoid dangling ornaments. Of course, they look like a toy for swatting and chewing. Also, ornament hooks can cause puncture wounds.
5. Remember, tinsel is toxic. If your cat swallows something stringy, it may wrap around the base of the tongue or anchor itself in the stomach. If it cannot pass through the intestines, it could cause damage to the intestinal tract.

According to the ASPCA, some holiday plants are toxic to animals (poinsettias, lilies, and mistletoe included). Also, remember that not all human holiday treats are ideal for dogs and cats (especially chocolate). In addition to being a fire hazard, some candles can cause respiratory risks for pets.

Remember to Donate to Pets In Need

Not all pets will have the happiest of holidays. If your dog, cat, or pet has lightly used toys, beds, or uneaten treats, dozens of pets drop them off at your local shelter. Top rescue needs typically include linens, trash bags, pet food, hygiene products, and potty-training pads. You can also donate in your pet’s name.

At St. Bernard Veterinary Hospital, our goal is to give your pet a comprehensive, stress-free exam and to answer any of your questions. You can rest assured that our team will provide your pet with the best medical care. Click here to schedule your appointment today or call 504-277-0141.