Puppy wrapped up in Christmas lightsWhen it comes to indulging our fur kids, the holidays can be the best time of year! Many owners wouldn’t dream of keeping a beloved pet off Santa’s gift list and thankfully, buying gifts for pets is the norm these days.

To help you create the perfect pet wish list, the team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital has compiled some of our favorite ideas along with gifts you should avoid.

2016’s Hottest Gifts for Pets

Gone are the days of giving Fido a tennis ball or Snuggles a bit of catnip. We have some great toys, pet supplies, and other indulgences to choose from as pet owners. Here are some of our top picks!

BarkBox Why restrict your gift giving to the holidays? This monthly subscription delivers your favorite canine a box of toys, treats, and other surprise goodies.

Airplane cat house Not only will your cat have an amazing time in this stylish cardboard contraption, it will also provide plenty of cute photo ops for your furry flying ace.

Batman dog shirt This cool shirt will be a hit with all the DC Comics fans and will provide extra warmth for your pet during the cold days of winter.

Bacon flavored chew bone Did someone say bacon? This tasty chew toy is also made of heavy duty nylon meant for hours of chewing without all the risks of bone or rawhide.

FroliCat laser pet toy Loved by dogs and cats alike, this interactive laser toy can be set to generate random light beams at variable speeds for hours of pouncing fun (and good exercise).

Treat dispensing game The Bob-a-Lot offers bored dogs a chance to be challenged while providing the ultimate reward – a tasty treat!

Pet backpack carrier For the pet owner who bikes, hikes, or uses public transportation, this hands-free carrier provides safety and a view for your pet while commuting.

And don’t forget about senior pet pals! During cold winter months, items like sweaters, an indoor treadmill for year-round exercise, or a comfy orthopedic or heated bed are great options.

Some Items to Avoid

When considering gifts for pets, the list of choices can seem endless. However, there are some you should definitely avoid. These include anything that contains small parts, plastic inserts, or other items that can be ingested; bones, rawhide, and antlers, which can cause splintering or choking emergencies; string, yarn, or thread; and any items containing chemicals or possible toxic materials.

When in doubt, please contact the team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital. We’re happy to point you in the right direction to make your pet’s wishes come true!