The Gift That Keeps On Giving

Christmas isn't about presents and gifts, but it is nice to give someone something.Here are a few gift ideas for friends who have animals.

1. Treats. Unless your friend's pet is diabetic, you can make up a little gift bag that has treats in it. If you don't want it to be a surprise for the owner, ask her what his favorite treats are. At pet stores they have special Christmas-themed treat packages, such as a candy-cane-shaped rawhide chew I saw once.
2. Toys.  One of my animal-loving friends has a dog and a cat, and she bought little personalized stockings in them that come with toys and treats in them already. The ones she had had a little clear place to put a picture of the pet. You could get that, or just get some rope toys. Even if you get the same as what they already have, they probably won't mind. The original toy will get old over time, and the owner can simply replace it with yours.
3. Coupons. Try collecting pet coupons and put them in an envelope. By that, I don't mean toys and treats kind of coupons(although those would be fine too) but I mean the other kind. For example, there are doggy spas and camps all over. There are some coupons that make them less expensive and offer a better package.
4. Pet care. Even experienced pet owners need a break from their pet-chores from time to time. Or maybe they are going on a trip and they need a kennel for their pets. A great gift is to take care of your friends pets for the day(or more). Since it's a gift, don't even charge them. Just do it for free and save your friend's wallet.

Although all these gifts are great ideas, the best gift of all is to spend time with your friend and your own pets. It's up to you to be the best friend possible to your human friend, and your animal friend too! Merry Christmas!(Well, not yet, but it's coming up fast)

Giving Your Small Pet Medicine

A constant hassle during your small critter's life is when he needs medications. Your stuffy-nosed guinea pig or your wheezing hammie may be difficult to handle. Or you may just not know quite how to stick the dropper in the tiny, buck-toothed jaws of a persistent rabbit. Well, I'm here to help! Now, you'll be able to give your critter medicine with ease.

First things first....  

You have read the label on the container fifteen times, but you are still in shock. How can I stuff this huge dropper into my hamster's mouth?? you think. The truth is, you don't have to. Simply squirt the needed amount into the hamster's(or rabbit's or rat's or etc.) water bottle. Simple, right?? Told 'ya.

Second things second..... 

With some medications, they come as tablets the animal has to eat. These cannot be dissolved in water, but you can put it in a food item or offer a treat after the animal has chewed the tablet. Watch your pet to make sure he has eaten it before you walk off.

Third things third.............. 

Reward the pet every time. For once a day, after the tablet has been eaten, give your pet a good snuggle. My rabbit Daisy, who used to take medicine for when she was a young bunny, enjoyed a privilege such as a longer playtime every day or even a half a banana(only one day a week, of course!). 

To end with, any small pet can be very feisty, especially because they aren't feeling too hot. Always be patient with your pet, even if you get a nip or scratch, and always contact your vet if your pet seems to be allergic to the medications!