December 14, 2009
Purdue veterinarian offers gift ideas for pets
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - As you shop for Christmas gifts for your pets, keep their health in mind, says Lorraine Corriveau, a wellness veterinarian at Purdue University's School of Veterinary Medicine.Here are her top 10 holiday gift ideas for pets:
1. A chew toy to prevent pets from chewing ribbons and wrapping paper while people open gifts.
2. Healthy treats to avoid the temptation of feeding pets from the table.
3. A new collar and leash, or a gift certificate for training, to remind owners to exercise their pets. Find out what works best for the dog and get an appropriate-sized collar.
4. A grooming kit or a grooming gift certificate. Grooming gives owners a chance to take a close look at and feel their pet's coat and notice outward symptoms of certain health problems.
5. A dental gift certificate or a dental cleaning kit. Eighty percent of dogs and cats need dental care.
6. A new bed or a kennel for pets to curl up away from family activities.
7. Cages and crates for new or growing dogs. A collapsible cage is particularly appropriate for those who travel with their pets.
8. Microchip pets for permanent identification. Making a one-time investment with a small registration fee, owners have their names and addresses on file in case their pet is lost or is involved in an accident.
9. Once the holiday season is over, introduce your pet to low-calorie food if the animal is overweight.
10. Don't give pets as presents, but give a certificate for a new puppy or a pet health-care package. Most shelters, humane societies, pet stores and breeders offer gift certificates to select the pet after Christmas, when the entire family can contribute to the decision. If someone has a new puppy or kitten, buy the first-year health-care package. Ask the clinic if it can package the first-year vaccinations, deworming, neutering and microchipping in one bundle.Writer: Soumitro Sen, 765-496-9711, ssen@purdue.edu
Source: Lorraine Corriveau, 765-714-0438, corrivea@purdue.edu
Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu
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