During the holiday season, peace and joy abound as you gather together with your loved ones. However, shopping can be stressful. Although your gift list seems to get longer each year and you may struggle to choose gifts that everyone will like, shopping for your pet can be a welcome relief, because your four-legged friend truly appreciates the smallest gesture or present. Pets are pure souls who enjoy the simple things in life, making gifting to them a breeze. To help ensure you give your furry pal safe presents this year, consider our Safe Harbor Animal Hospital team’s gift suggestions.

#1: Pet treats and chews

Treats and chews are always a hit with food-motivated pets or those who like to keep busy. When evaluating these items, consider the sensitivity of your pet’s digestive system and past health history. If your pet has a sensitive stomach or food allergies, you should consider avoiding such a gift or offering only a small amount at a time. Look for chew items that are either highly digestible (e.g., rawhide alternative) or nonedible (e.g., rubber, nylon) and that match your pet’s chewing style, which is often listed on the packaging. Avoid animal bones, which can become a digestive hazard or break your pet’s teeth.

#2: Pet toys

Toys are necessary for most pets, especially younger dogs and cats with high energy levels. Choose toys that will hold up to your pet’s play style and engage their interests. For example, if you have a large-breed dog who likes to shred things, avoid stuffies and give them rubber or rope toys. Focus on interactive toys or food puzzles if your pet is easily bored or needs encouragement to get moving more. If your dog or cat damages a toy or tries to eat any pieces, immediately throw it away.

#3: Pet beds

A comfortable bed helps ensure your pet’s comfort. However, your furry pal’s bed can become a hazard if your pet digs into or chews the outer material. Young dogs often shred their beds, so keep this in mind when choosing one for your puppy. Look for tough nylon or ballistic outer material and try to avoid beds that have easy-to-reach seams, zippers, or hard corners, as these are prime chew targets. 

#4: Pet clothes

Pet clothing has evolved in recent years, and online retailers offer garments in many sizes. Cats typically prefer to go naked, but some dogs appreciate an added warmth layer during the cooler holiday months. Ensure that the clothing you purchase for your dog is the correct size. If the garment is too loose, your dog can become entangled in the drooping fabric. However, if your dog’s clothing is too tight, it can restrict their breathing or mobility. In addition, avoid outfitting your dog in clothing that includes buttons or zippers that they can easily chew off and swallow. 

#5: Pet experiences

If your pet has all the material possessions they need, consider gifting them with an experience such as a training class, hiking or camping trip, dog sport, or playgroup. As long as you and your pet enjoy the specific activity, the investment is worthwhile. For safety’s sake, do not go out during extreme weather conditions, bring a first aid kit, and keep our Safe Harbor Animal Hospital team’s number stored in your phone for quick reference if your pet is injured.

#6: Quality pet-owner bonding time

No pet gift is better than your time. Material items generally don’t mean as much to your pet as the bond they share with you and other household members. This holiday season, set aside time each day to cuddle, train, exercise, or groom your pet. Choose simple daily activities that deepen your bond.

A note on holiday gift wrapping for pets

Choosing a safe gift for your pet does nothing if you use a potentially harmful gift wrap. Keep smelly gifts (e.g., treats, chews, catnip) out of your pet’s reach until you’re ready for your furry pal to open them. If you allow your furry pal to open their own gift, do not use foil wrapping paper. Wrap your pet’s gift in plain paper or put the surprise in a simple cardboard box, and use as little nontoxic tape as possible. Do not use ribbons or string, because if your pet ingests this, they can experience an intestinal obstruction. To help ensure your furry pal does not destroy or eat gifts and their wrappings that could upset or block their digestive tract, always supervise your pet while they are opening and interacting with their gifts.

The best gift you can give your pet is good health. Keep your furry pal in tip-top shape by ensuring they have regular veterinary visits, including preventive and wellness care. To schedule your pet’s next veterinary visit, call or book their appointment online with our Safe Harbor Animal Hospital team. We are also available to answer questions regarding holiday product safety with your individual pet’s needs in mind. To learn about our other family-owned veterinary practices in the Mount Pleasant area, visit Animal Hospitals of the Lowcountry, Shuler Veterinary Clinic, or Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital.