With all the lists out there for holiday gifts, here’s one more to consider. These are products that I’ve either tried or thoroughly researched (and plan on buying). Seriously wonderful finds. You and your pups deserve it.

1. Custom Doggie Illustrations by Animator, Lili Chin

It was serendipity. I was at the most awesome Clicker Expo last January and happened to be sitting next to a really sweet person who happened to be Lili Chin. She gave me her card and I knew (having been in the commerical arts for a lonnnnnng time) that this was one seriously talented illustrator.

Her illustrations are gorgeous, cartoon-like, sweet, perfect. She’s an animator, too, which partially explains the talent level. Her custom illustrations are priced according to number of doggie subjects (1 dog=$100, 2 dogs=$160, etc.). Get one. You’ll love it. Get one for someone else’s pup. They’ll love it.

2. A Custom Blanket from Photoweavers

If it wouldn’t ruin a surpise, I’d post a photo of the great throw I ordered from Photoweavers. Can you just imagine how someone would feel receiving a soft, cotton, woven throw with the image of a beloved dog on it? Not just any dog, THEIR dog! And if the gift is for someone who’s beloved pup has passed on… well, you can imagine how well that would go over. No words necessary. Love this. Cost is $129. And you’ll save 30% if you use this code: FRIENDSANDFAMILY  at PhotoWeavers.com.

 

 

 

3. The book: Don’t Shoot the Dog! The New Art of Teaching and Training by Karen Pryor.

Ignore the title and check out this brilliant read about the science of learning. “Karen Pryor is a scientist with an international reputation in two fields: marine mammal biology and behavioral psychology. Through her work with dolphins in the 1960s, she pioneered modern, force-free animal training methods.” That’s from her website, Reaching the Animal Mind. She’s also the creator of Clicker Training.

First published in 1984, this is the SCIENCE of learning. It’s real, it works, and it’s beneficial to both you and your companion animals. Don’t be trapped in the dark ages with ‘whispering’ and ‘dominance’ and ‘pack leader’ folklore. Give this book to someone you love.

 

 

 

4. Cow Udder Liners Make Great Dog Toys?

Here at Dog Parent, we love companies that support rescue organizations. And through DailyKibble, we found out about a company that makes the coolest dog toys out of recycled udder liners! Helping Udders takes the previously discarded rubber liners that are used in commercial milking factories and turns them into doggy toys for chewing, tugging, and general doggy fun.

They come in all shapes and sizes (for all shapes and sizes of dogs), some have ropes attached, some incorporate bungees. And when you buy these cool toys from Helping Udders, you get to choose which rescue will receive a part of the purchase price. They have a huge list of rescue organizations on their site, and, to date, more than $170,000 has been donated. Now how cool is that?

 

5. Always in Your Heart, for Sure

The Humane Society of the US has an online shop called Humane Domain. We found this beautiful heart-shaped pendant necklace that can be personalized with your fur angel’s name on the back. On the front, the heart-shaped pendant says “Always in my heart” with a paw print. So precious!

It’s available in pewter ($19.50) or sterling silver ($59.50), and the name engraving on the back is included in the price. The chain is a 20” cable style. Who wouldn’t love this gift?

 

 

 

 

6. How Many Bowls of Food will Your Purchase Fund?

The Animal Rescue Site is part of The Greater Good Network, and helps fund non-profits that are working for animal causes. Their shop sells an adorable line of signature paw print products.

We’ve been shopping at The Animal Rescue Site for years and have never been disappointed by the quality and great prices on their jewelry and accessories. Plus, they calculate the aid provided in terms of “bowls of food funded.” Check out the Paw Print jewelry, accessories, and clothing. You’ll probably become a regular, happy customer.