Top 10 Gift Ideas for Pampered Pets

It's no secret that people love their pets. In 2005, for instance, the American Pet Products Manufacturers Associationestimated that pet spending exceeded $34 billion dollars. And, during the holidays, of course everyone wants the very best presents for Fluffy or Bowser under the tree.

Average people, of course, buy their pets balls and new collars, rawhide bones and chew toys.

But what do you get the truly pampered pet?

Here are ten ideas for extraordinary presents for your best animal buddy. Most of these are for dogs, and some are for cats. But if your pet is an iguana or a hamster or something else, hey, just use these ideas for suggestions and take it from there!

1. A new house

Personally, I've always wanted a log cabin. I can't afford one yet, but I can get one for my dog for
about $100! And, if he would like his own deck with his cabin, that will only set me back about $300, and even my husband probably wouldn't mind being in the doghouse.

2. Something really nice to wear

How about a motorcycle jacket? It's faux leather, with a motorcycle design in rhinestones on the back, and it's a steal for only $76.00 at DoggieVogue!
Or, for formal wear for those holiday parties, a nice doggie tuxedo or cocktail dress will only run you about $40. Not much to make your darling the belle or beau of the ball, is it?

3. A nice piece of bling

Everybody loves jewelry. Of course, you can get your dog or cat a lovely studded leather or snakeskin collar for between $25 and $50 dollars. Or, how about a 5-strand Austrian Crystal necklace for your kitty? She will look stunning in it, and it's only $80!

4. Something Delicious to Eat

Sure, beef and tuna is fine for ordinary days but for the holidays, food needs to be speacial. How about doggie treats made of ostrich and emu? Holistic, organically grown duck and free range turkey and chicken dinners for cats and dogs? Homemade cookies with no preservatives? You can find them all over the Internet and in every pet store, ranging from $10 to the sky's the limit.

5. Bath and body products

Naturally, one's skin and body cannot get too much pampering, and for less than $50 your pampered pooch can have a complete set of conditioners, shampoos, and soaps. For less than $10, she can have her own collection of nail polish, as well, so as to be perfectly groomed from head to toe.

6. A day at the Spa

But even better than being pampered at home is being pampered at a Spa. And pet spas now offer heated pools, guided walks, massages, personal grooming, and everything you'd expect from a spa treat. Prices vary from less than $30 to around $100.

7. A vacation

If you're traveling on vacation for the holidays, then your pet should have a holiday, too. Many hotels now are pet-friendly, so your pet can travel with you. Or, check out PetSmart's Pet Hotels, where your pet can have his own comfortable room with tv, treats, and daily activities to enjoy while you're away.

8. New toys

What's the holidays without toys? Unthinkable! Dog and cat toys are not very expensive, but you can get your animal a personalized stocking and fill it up with Kongs, plush gingerbread men, holiday-themed rubber balls, and more to keep your pet in the holiday spirit! Throw in some candy canes for your puppy!

9. A fabulous throw or blanket

Nothing beats a really comfy blanket when you're ready to snuggle down. Give your pet something extra nice, like a corduroy throw for about $100 or a lovely crochet blanket for about $40. Of course, she's going to chew on it or sharpen her claws on it or worse, but come on, it's Christmas!

10.Time with you

This one can't be found on the Internet and it doesn't have a price tag, but nothing will make your pet happier than time with you. Cuddle before the fire with your cat, or take your dog for a romp in the park. Take those new toys out and play!

Here's hoping these tips and your imagination will lead to happy holidays for you and your animal pals.

Merry shopping!