Pet Expert Charlotte Reed Recommends Holiday Gifts that are Safe and Fun for Pets
Pet expert's safe and fun holiday gift suggestions for dogs, cats and birds.
New York, NY (PRWEB) November 29, 2006
Sixty-nine million American households own a pet, and more than half of them will be buying a gift for their non-human family members this year. "For many, pets are the new kids," explains pet expert Charlotte Reed. "And just as you would check that a gift is safe for a child, be sure what you choose is safe for your pet."
"Before selecting a Christmas gift for your pet, think about what is going to be appropriate for its size, breed and personality," recommends Reed. Many pets have been injured and have died as result of unsafe toys.
Although pet owners might have fun dressing up their dog in a new winter coat, most dogs would prefer toys. For puppies, look for something soft and cuddly that can withstand the chewing of a teething pup. Adolescent canines are filled with energy and need toys that keep them busy and out of trouble. Try a stimulating toy that releases kibble or a battle-tested toy for nervous and big-time chewers. Stay away from stuffed animals that can easily be can be ripped apart because they can create a choking hazard or block your pet's digestive system.
Sporting and Terrier dogs need toys that can help them burn off their extra energy. Buy a ball that can withstand all of those games of fetch you'll be playing together, or get your dog to chase after the point of a laser light. Senior dogs, however, spend most of their time sleeping, so they're likely to ignore toys a younger canine might drool over. Look for a bed that helps pad tender joints, or choose a blanket they can snuggle with when they are relaxing on the couch.
Bored cats are likely to go looking for ways to satisfy their natural instincts to hunt and play. Before your cat chews up a poisonous plant or knocks down a glass vase because she's fighting her reflection, give her a toy that gets her pouncing, batting, chasing and jumping -- safely. Fishing pole toys will keep her busy for hours, and she's sure to really show her love for you if you give her some catnip, preferable wrapped up to look like a nice, juicy mouse.
Caged birds require stimulation to be healthy. Buy several toys, and rotate them regularly to keep your bird interested. Keep in mind the bird's strength: a mirror with bells is good fun for small birds, but dangerous for larger birds that can easily break it. Rope toys provide hours of play, but can snag on overgrown nails, so get Polly's nails trimmed regularly.
"Some toys come with age or energy level recommendations, but remember that you're the one that knows your pet best. A toy might claim to be unbreakable, but if your Rottweiler has what seems to be jaws of steel, don't risk it," warns Reed.
Charlotte Reed is an international pet expert. Renowned for her pet know-how, energy and wit, she's a popular television and radio guest, writer, spokesperson and lecturer. She is the owner of Two Dogs and a Goat, Incorporated., a leading in-home pet care business in New York City. Her new book The Miss Fido Manners Complete Book of Etiquette (Adams Media) hits store shelves in July. Miss Reed is the pet parent of four dogs, three cats, one parrot and a cage full of finches.
###
