BY Guest Blogger, Cindy Aldridge.
Cindy is a dog lover and she loves sharing her advice and insights on pet ownership.
Santa Paws is Coming to Town: Gift Ideas for Dog Lovers
The season of giving is right around the corner. And while it’s a fun and festive time of year, it can also be a bit stressful, especially when it comes to figuring out what to get for your friends and family. The good news is that if they are a dog lover, you have a plethora of unique yet useful options for presents. Whether you are making a gift list for the dog lovers in your life, or are curating your own wish list, read on for some great gift ideas all dog lovers can enjoy.
A Vacation
Let’s start with the big one: a vacation. Pet owners often feel forced into leaving their furry friends behind or, worse, skip out on a vacation altogether because they feel guilty leaving their pal behind. However, there are actually plenty of hotels and bed and breakfasts that cater to canine clientele. If you’re looking to give an extra generous gift, consider booking them a stay at a pet-friendly hotel for a vacation they’ll both enjoy.
A GPS Tracker
Another great gift for dog owners on-the-go is a GPS tracker. These are especially beneficial to people with young dogs that haven’t quite mastered the sit/stay command or those with a mischievous disposition. GPS trackers aren’t pricey, but most do require a monthly subscription, which you can pay in advance. Check online reviews before making a commitment.
A Customized Portrait
For the pet owner that appreciates fine art, a personalized portrait will make them giggle with delight. The internet makes it easy to find and commission an artist to create the canvas of your pet-loving recipient’s dreams—whether they like pop-style art, watercolor, or a whimsical reimagining of their dog as a war hero. Browse long enough and you’ll even stumble upon a custom cross-stitch pattern. The Etsy Marketplace has you covered and currently lists more than 40,000 pet art projects available for order.
A Book About Dogs
There are few gifts better for a dog lover than a sentimental book about a canine and his human companion. Books such as Marley & Me, Call of the Wild, and A Dog’s Purpose (as well as the books in the right margin of this blog), are sure to strike hard at their emotions. Each of these books has been turned into a motion picture that could also make a great gift. Don’t forget to package their books with a box of tissues.
A Paw-Print Set in Stone
Well, not really stone, but plaster of Paris, which is an inexpensive and easy-to-use casting clay that you can find it most craft supply stores. Be warned, however, that it can get messy and takes a few days to dry.
A Leash and Collar
Active pet people know the value of a leash and collar — and there are never enough of them around when needed. The majority of dog owners are happy to have multiple sets for different purposes. Someone with a new puppy might, for example, enjoy a slip collar, while someone with a large breed, such as a greyhound, might appreciate the added control that goes along with a harness..
A Gift That Keeps on Giving
If you haven’t hopped on the monthly subscription train, now’s the perfect time to do so. Whether you’re giving or making your own list, check it twice to ensure you’ve added a pet subscription box. Companies like BarkBox and Loot Pets constantly offer innovative pup products for a small recurring fee. You can choose a single month, three months, six months, or one year subscription, which is guaranteed to be appreciated.
A Matching Outfit
We get it, pets weren’t meant to wear clothes, but they just look so cute when they do. Small breeds, including Chihuahuas, actually do better outdoors when they have something to keep their small bodies insulated. This Christmas, make all the stylish members of your family happy with a matching outfit or, better yet, pajamas.
A Donation in Their Pet’s Memory
A memorial gift is a thoughtful way to let your loved ones know that you acknowledge how painful it is to lose a pet. It doesn’t matter if their pet passed away recently or if it’s been 10 years or more, pets leave a mark on the heart that lasts forever. The ASPCA makes it easy to acknowledge a life lost too soon and gladly accepts online payments for memorial gifts.
There you have it—more than half a dozen ideas for the picky pet person on your list. And don’t worry, we won’t judge you if you order duplicates for yourself.
