What is the perfect gift for companion animals? There are so many things to choose from. Here is a sample list that might help with your decision:
A fresh honey stick for the sweetest bird you know.An electrically heated rock for the snake or lizard whose blood has been running a little cold lately.
Green dog biscuits for the dog that's getting a bit tired of other exotic colors.
Rawhide bone for the dog or bird or small animal that doesn't care what color his chew toy is as long as he can boost his ego by chewing it up quickly. (Safety note: Never leave your dog unattended while eating a rawhide bone. Some dogs could choke.)
A nylon/rubber chew toy for the animal that wants its treat to last longer.
A sleeping cushion for the cat with more than one favorite spot.
An exercise wheel or ball for the hamster or gerbil worried about his waistline.
A cage cover for the bird who doesn't want to stay up late for every holiday party.
Cage litter or paper for the bird that's embarrassed when the party crowd comments about his dirty cage.
An unbreakable Christmas tree ornament for the cat that won't leave them alone on the tree.
An indoor kennel so the new puppy learns to control his bowels and bladder and has a safe place to sleep.
An odor control product for OOPS!
A new car to take all the animals (and you) for a ride.
During the holiday season please keep your animal safe by following a few simple safety measures.
Also you can make a lot of fun toys with materials around the house. This is a fun activity you can do with your children before Christmas.
If you would like the activity sheets send $1 to Salt Lake County Animal Services Education Program, 511 W. 3900 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84123. Please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
Pet-proof decorating:
1. Pets find holiday trimmings irresistible, so be extra careful in placing decorations.
2. Fasten the Christmas tree to a wall or secure it other ways to prevent a cat or dog from knocking it over.
3. Hang breakables, tinsel or other tempting decorations well out of paw's reach. Tinsel, ribbon, string, and ornament hangers are especially dangerous for pets to chew.
4. Make sure pets don't play with or chew on electric cords.
5. Place holiday plants out of pet's reach. Many seasonable plants are poisonous. These include mistletoe, holly and poinsettias.
Treats to eat:
1. Holiday foods are tasty, but they aren't always a treat for pets.
2. Poultry bones splinter and can be very dangerous for pets to chew.
3. Ham and other pork dishes are rich, often upsetting pets' systems.
4. Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical that can be deadly to dogs. Never share chocolate or other candy with animals.
5. Instead of people food, give pets a few of their favorite pet treats during special meals.
Gifts and goodies:
1. Pets deserve presents, too, but choose safe toys that won't harm them.
2. Avoid toys with small parts or those made of soft materials that pets can chew up and swallow.
3. Avoid hard plastic dog bones. They can splinter or shed fragments that dogs swallow. Nylon-type chews are much better and last longer too.
4. Don't put catnip or other edibles in hanging stockings (especially if they're by the fire).
5. And don't forget needy animals during the holidays. I hope these tips will help you and your pet have a safe and happy holiday season.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding animal health or welfare, contact the Salt Lake County Animal Services Humane Education Department, 264-2247.