BERYL ONO-STAPLETON / HAWAIIAN HUMANE SOCIETY
Corgis Joey and Corey are happy with a soft flying disk, one of their favorite toys. This photo was one of more than 1,280 entries included in the 2003 Pets in Paradise calendar, available at the Hawaiian Humane Society. Proceeds from sales of the $10 calendar benefit the society's mission.
Are your pets sniffing and pawing around the holiday tree, wondering whether there are any gifts for them? Animal lovers often treat their pets royally, choosing from a dazzling array of items now available for every species. Best holiday gift for pet
is love and attention
Donations welcome
By Hawaiian Humane Society
But the best gift we can give our animals is not the latest toy or treat -- it's the gift of our time and our love. During the busy holiday season, remember to give your pet an extra snuggle, a nice brushing and a long walk -- these are the gifts that will mean the most to the animals that share our lives.
If you insist on something extra under the tree, here are a few tips for choosing pet gifts that will enhance your relationship with your companion animals.
The cat in your household will be intrigued with interactive games that stimulate its mind and provide chasing exercise. From a simple peacock feather to the high-tech laser-pointer "mouse," your cat will enjoy the fun that you provide with a wave of your arm.
Feeling industrious? You and your feline companion can work on a building project together and make a kitty playhouse. Request free plans from the Humane Society by mail (call 946-2187, ext. 223), and pick up materials from Home Depot or other hardware store. The playhouse fits nicely on a lanai or courtyard, and when placed in your yard will allow your cat to romp safely in the fresh air.
You don't even need to spend money to provide fun for your feline. Just empty a tissue box, place a treat at the bottom and stuff it with crumpled paper -- your cat will be happy for hours!
Cats also love hiding in paper bags, especially ones that make crinkling noises. Another no-cost gift is an empty shoe box that your feline will fold herself into for a nap.
AWK! WHAT ABOUT the bird in your household?
Most birds need toys to keep them busy and occupied since they live in enclosed spaces. Smaller birds enjoy hanging toys and swings. Some birds like to peck at ropes or wooden toys with their big beaks. Fibers and wood are meant to be pecked, not eaten, so supervise your bird to make sure it is not ingesting your gift. In fact, all companion animals should be supervised closely when they receive new playthings or edible treats.Rabbits and guinea pigs will have fun with simple gifts like cardboard tubes and boxes. Use the tubes from paper towels for mice and small pets; get sturdy cardboard tubing (used to mold concrete) from a building supply store for larger animals. Stuff one end with newspaper to make a cozy hideout.
Pet stores have specially designed clear balls in various sizes that small mammals might enjoy. The idea is to place your pet inside the ball and let it roll around freely on the carpet or lawn. Even if you haven't got a green thumb, you can grow a patch of wheat grass in an empty, halved milk container and treat your rabbit to fresh grass for nibbling.
A GOOD GIFT for your dog can be as simple as an old tennis ball, as long as you are there to toss it. Both you and your dog will benefit from the exercise provided by a hike with the Paws on the Path group. Led by a volunteer from the Hawaiian Humane Society, the hikes allow dogs and their people to explore trails throughout Oahu together. This month's hike takes place Dec. 28, at Kaunala above Waimea. Meet at 8:30 a.m. For more information, call 946-2187, ext. 217.
Adolescent and older pups need chewing exercise. Nylabone and Gumabone products provide that exercise and also help to reduce tartar buildup on your dog's teeth. Hard rubber Kong-like toys stuffed with treats keep dogs occupied and happy while they search out the goodies.
Look for the new "talking" treat ball that lets you record a message in your own voice. Later, when your dog plays with the ball, the message plays back, and treats are dispensed as the ball rolls. Or you can keep your pooch perfectly happy by making a chew toy from a couple of old cotton socks tied together.
After the presents are open, make a New Year's resolution to spend more quality time with your pets.
"Pet Ohana" runs the first and third Fridays of the month. The Hawaiian Humane Society is a nonprofit agency dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals. They are at 2700 Waialae Ave. Call 946-2187.
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Pets are fortunate creatures, but there are many more homeless animals in Hawaii. The Hawaiian Humane Society welcomes donations that help provide shelter on Oahu for more than 30,000 animals, investigate more than 1,300 cruelty complaints, bring the humane education message to 10,000 keikis and adults, reunite more than 4,000 pets with their families and find new homes for almost 7,000 pets. Donations welcome
Some donors may commemorate their pets with a plaque or steppingstone in the Paul Wagner Memorial Garden.
For more information, call 946-2187.
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