Practical Stocking Stuffers for Pet Parents

Does your aunt gush over her cat, or your grandfather simply adore his dog? Spoil your pet parent family members with stocking stuffers that benefit both the pet and your relative this Christmas. Here are my top five pet-related stocking stuffer picks!

1. Pet Breath Mints
This stocking stuffer will create a room full of laughs. Pet retailers offer breath mints for both cats and dogs. The cute bone, fire hydrant or fish shaped treats come in a classic mint-style tin making the product that much more adorable. But, don't expect the pet's breath to actually improve. Some of these products are flavored with fish, liver or beef!

2. Themed Doggie Waste Bags
Anyone that walks a dog should carry dog waste bags. Sure, re-using old grocery sacks is economical, but spoil your hound-loving friend with a novelty dog waste bag holder and bags. The plastic or cloth containers easily clip to a dog leash, belt loop or coat zipper, making the dirty task at hand well, handy. I've personally used holders covered in skulls and crossbones and bags decorated with baseballs, footballs and flowers. For an extra touch, choose fresh scented waste bags.

3. Pet Brag Book
If you're a shutter bug, put together a small brag book of pet pictures. Choose photos of the pet alone, with the owner, with friends, dressed up for holidays and just being goofy in general. These positive visual memories will become a treasured keepsake for the pet owner.

4. Matching Sweaters
Nothing exudes love more than looking like your pet. Pair up an Iowa Hawkeye's jersey with the pet equivalent from Petco. Add in a matching leash, collar and neckerchief for the ultimate in style. For bonus happiness, toss in a new coordinating baseball cap for the human.

5. Novelty Pet Tags
Dogs, cats, ferrets even pet rabbits wear pet ID tags. Have a custom tag made if the pet lover has moved recently and needs updated homing information on their pet. Since it's Christmas, go all out and choose a tag with lots of bling. Faux rhinestones, sports team logos, rainbows and unique shapes all add style to the pet's wardrobe.

Sources and Suggested Further Reading:
Petco
PetSmart
Personal Experience
###