Holiday gift ideas for the most important member of the family

A pet portrait

For the pet parent whose camera roll is 99.99% photos of their animal, a pet portrait takes that kind of love to the next level.

There are so many options for capturing a pet on canvas — you’ll find illustrators on Etsy who’ll produce original sketches, online services that will print portraits of a pet in Renaissance-era finery (yes, actually), and there’s also the DIY option of printing a favourite photograph and framing it for the devoted pet lover in your life.

Fancy holiday wear

Many pet parents are opting for holiday sweaters for their furry BFFs, and we have plenty of options that will inspire holiday cheer — and many Insta pics.

Looking for other ideas? Why not try a bow or neck tie for your handsome dog and cat? Or perhaps a hair bow for those who are more diva-esque. We also carry fun bandanas for furry friends that are less inclined to wear a full outfit.

Indoor activity inspiration for snowy days

From holiday parties to icy sidewalks, there are many days when pet parents will want to keep walks or other outdoor activities to a minimum.

But an adventurous pup or mischievous kitty still needs to expel pent-up energy, not to mention work off any of those holiday treats they’ve been inhaling. Rope, tug, and toss toys are great for some friendly scuffles, while teasers, wands and lasers can easily inspire hours of play.

A donation to an animal welfare organization

Pet parents don’t just love their own pet, they love pets, period. Choose an organization that will mean a lot to them and make a donation in their name or in their pet’s name. It’s a great way to spread holiday cheer throughout your community.

A smart collar

Smart collars come in a broad range of capabilities, from very affordable choices with scannable ID tags to high-tech options with built-in GPS tracking and cellular network functionality.

Smart collars are a great gift designed to keep pups and pet parents together in situations where someone (no finger-pointing here) has temporarily wandered off in the wrong direction.

Winter boots

The right outerwear makes winter walks way more fun. West coast dogs will appreciate a pair of wellies for their weather conditions, while dogs in Montreal will want fleece-lined, all-weather footwear to protect their paws from salt, ice, and snow melt products.

If you aren’t sure if your dog will agree to boot-wearing, you can always start with the disposable balloon type. Be sure to reward with treats and take them out for a walk regularly so they learn that wearing boots means it's time for fun.

A dog ramp

For small or senior dogs, a ramp is the gift that keeps on giving. Ramps have many uses — they can support your dog getting in and out of the car, up and down short flights of stairs, and most importantly getting in and out of their bed (likely the one you sleep in, too).

A heated bed

Senior cats or cats with mobility issues and joint pain will love you this season when you give them their own heated bed. No more chasing after those rare patches of winter sunlight that come in from your windows. Instead, they can snooze all day in the perfect cozy spot.

A water fountain

Is it adorable when your cat hangs out by the sink playing with the faucet? Of course it is. Do you want them running up your water bill? Not so much.

With a fountain, you can give your cat what they want — the inexplicable joy that comes from running water while also encouraging them to keep hydrated during the dry winter months.

A paw print ornament

That’s why we’re certain they’re going to love being immortalized with a paw print ornament-making kit, a simple and easy to do craft that cements their place in your family’s holiday traditions. Technically you could do this for your dog as well but we recommend asking your cat’s permission first.

A mouse house

Hamsters, mice, and gerbils love to have their own little hideout within their larger living space. Give them the downtime and privacy they crave by installing an addition, or give them an upgrade this holiday season — one they can retreat to when they just need to get away from it all.

Festive bell toys

This one’s a winner with all types of small animals including birds. Get into the holiday spirit by gifting your pet a bell-festooned, jingle-all-the-way toy that lets them participate in the merry-making on a sonic level.

Shred and chew toys

These kinds of toys are great on multiple levels, supporting everything from dental to mental health. Shred and chew items (think: natural cardboard, wicker, and pet-grade hay and wood) are a great way to keep small animals intellectually engaged and entertained while also providing some light exercise for their little bodies.

This year and every year, the best gift for any pet on your list is quality time together during the holiday season. Make sure to include them in your celebrations and you’ll be making memories that last lifetimes.