Talk to the Animals: Presents for pets

They say Christmas is all about the children, however if it happens that your 'children' are of the furry variety that's no reason to leave them off Santa's list. Pet owners themselves also love to have their four legged family acknowledged with a thoughtful gift. This is a rather clever option for those people that are difficult to buy for.

Presents for Pets

Dogs are certainly the most easily pleased of all pets when it comes to choosing a gift. Toys for chewing or play will be happily received as well as delicious doggy treats which can be found in a dizzying array at pet shops, vet clinics and even the supermarket.

To find out the top picks for Christmas, I visited one of the Animates pet stores and asked for their recommendations. I was shown gourmet dog treats of chicken hearts, mussels and salmon tails, and the rather less attractive assortment of body parts such as pigs trotters, ears and snouts - all a big hit with dogs, though perhaps not always their people.

Chew toys are good for a dog's dental health and also provide an activity for pets home alone. For hot summer days, fill rubber cone toys with treats and then freeze to provide the canine equivalent of reading a magazine of a summer afternoon. The battle between chew toy and large dog may have finally met its match with a Kevlar covered Kong toy that stands up to even the most powerful jaws.

For cats, I discovered an interactive toy that fires a toy mouse along a racetrack. The 'Frolicat' is not the cheapest toy on the shelf but the entertainment value for both pet and owner is priceless. Cat toys start at only a few dollars and include those stuffed with irresistible catnip through to a people powered 'bird wand' that Animates staff say "brings you and your pet closer".

Rabbits and guinea pigs are also well catered for with toys and treats though perhaps an upgrade to larger accommodation or an exercise run would be the best option for these pets that are too often confined to small cages.

Presents for Pet Owners

• Calendars featuring the recipient's breed of cat or dog

• Pet covers designed for car seats

• Window vents for cars and doggy dividers

• Vouchers for doggy daycare or training classes

• The services of a dog walker

• A canine cut at the groomers

• Books or DVDs about animal care and training

• A pet portrait (a photo is emailed to an artist)

What not to give your pet

When purchasing dog toys, make sure they are the right size and of suitable durability to avoid swallowing or bits breaking off and becoming a choking hazard. The odd piece of Christmas turkey will be appreciated by most pets; however there are some festive foods to avoid.

• Chocolate is toxic to dogs and will result in a very expensive trip to the emergency vet.
• Cooked bones should be similarly avoided as they can splinter causing injury to an animal's mouth and gut.
• Raw meats, particularly chicken must be handled hygienically as dogs are just as prone to salmonella as we are.

Offering your dog a large helping of Christmas goodies on the day may seem like a good idea, but this sudden change to the diet can result in a sore stomach for your pet and a very unfestive clean up for you.

Of course the most important gift you can give pets is your time, so in between the crazyness of the season, take some time out to spend with your pet. It will be good for both of you.