What to get the pets

It's the same dilemma every year.

What do my two dogs and cat really want for Christmas?

Food, of course.

Annie, the cat, would love a live lizard or mouse.

One of my presents to my dogs will be a day at the groomer's. But I'm not sure they'll really like that very much.

We have received several pet gift pitches here at the newspaper.

There's the Dog-E-Glow, a site that offers something that looks pretty practical, especially if you walk your dog at night: collars and leashes illuminated by LED light technology. The company says the products are "light-weight and safe; weather resistant; and visible up to 1,000 feet in the dark."

I don't think my dogs would care very much. But they look like pretty nice gifts for the dog(s) on your list. And if you walk at night (or are afraid you dog might get out of the yard sometime), they would be practical.


You can personalize a dog toy, Christmas ornament, pet blanket or overnight bag through this Personalized Gifts company.

If dog and owner are the active, outdoorsy sorts, check out REI's pet department. They have dog carry packs, winter "boots" and overcoats, and heavy-duty harnesses.

If you're thinking of treats, try to stay healthy.

First: Don't buy any of those chicken jerky treats. They're also marketed as jerky strips or tenders and of special concern are those products that come from China. The FDA has issued a warning that reports of dogs becoming ill from the treats have increased over the past 12 months.

On another note, be aware of potential dangers to your dogs and cats this time of year.

Our friends at iLoveDogs, a Torrance-based company, have a full article on their website about the dangers of electrical cords, ornaments and ribbon.

For me, it's back to trying to figure out what to get my dogs and cat .... Time is running short.

Update: Here's a thought also from our friends at Dogster.