Neighbor News
A guide to holiday gifts for pets
Northern Virginia pet owners can spoil four-legged friends this holiday season with these gift ideas.
What would make your pet happier, healthier and more comfortable this year? Our Woodbridge Animal Hospital team has a few ideas for holiday gifts for pets…
Comforting Holiday Gifts for Pets
If you have a pet who suffers from arthritis or any other painful condition that makes it hard for him or her to get comfortable, consider getting a new bed that provides better support. If your pet gets stressed out by all of the holiday festivities, deck his or her crate out with a fluffy new blanket and plush toy. There is even some evidence that cats and dogs can be calmed and comforted by music. If you have to leave your pet alone for prolonged periods of time, have a playlist queued up on your stereo just for them. Maybe even read a story in your own voice to have played while you are away to provide some extra soothing.
Toys, Toys, Toys!
Chew toys are common holiday gifts for pets, but always be extra careful when selecting one of these. Make sure there are no small parts that can be chewed off and swallowed or choked on. Consider toys that provide some intellectual stimulation (like a Kong that your dog has to puzzle the treat out of) or physical activity (like a laser pointer for a cat to run around the house after). An activity center for cats to climb on and scratch is always a fun idea, as are balls and Frisbees for dogs.
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Holiday Treats
Some local shops sell and make healthy treats and cookies for dogs and cats that you could try. Try to avoid treats that are filled with empty calories and sugars that can damage your pet’s teeth and cause them to put on a few holiday pounds of their own. And as always, avoid treating your pet with people food. Foods like chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic, chicken and turkey bones, unbaked bread doughs, sweets flavored with Xylitol, avocados, macadamia nuts, etc. are toxic to pets!
What is the best gift you ever got your pet? Are you still struggling to come up with a gift for your buddy? We'd love to help. Give us a call at Woodbridge Animal Hospital anytime: (703) 897-5665.