In the last few years, pets have gone from mere companions to family members, and this is reflected in the market of products that now cater exclusively to animals and their owners. As a result, you may be looking for the perfect holiday gift for your furry friend, whether it is a cat, a dog, a fish or a horse.

To keep your pet warm and cozy this holiday season, you might consider a pet sweater, coat or shoes. These items are widely available, and are offered in a myriad of styles, themes and sizes. You may choose to outfit them in the latest designer gear, something that reflects the

holidays or in the colors of your alma mater. If you are looking for something a little less showy, or if your puppy isn’t too sold on the idea of wearing ‘clothing’, but still want to dress them up a bit, you might consider a festive collar and leash, or a pair of reindeer ears made especially for pets.

If pampering your pet is the goal, you could present her with a gift certificate to a local grooming salon that offers pet massage, pedicures and haircuts that will de-stress her and get her into the holiday spirit. There are also many services, usually reserved for their human counterparts, now available to animals – aromatherapy, acupuncture and reflexology – that will help balance your pet’s mind, body and spirit.

Perhaps you take your pet everywhere you go, and want a gift that will allow him to travel in the lap of luxury, in which case you may consider a carry bag designed especially for animals. Many of these are made with airline specifications in mind, so you can feel confident when you travel. If your pet is aging, but you still like to take her out, you have plenty of options in the ways of pet transportation – many companies offer strollers and carriers designed with the comfort of both the pet and owner in mind, and would make a fabulous gift for your favorite companion.

Other great options for gifts for dogs include doggy treat gift baskets, rawhide and other chew toys, and play-toys. If it’s a cat that’s on your list this season, consider giving a gift of kitty playthings, a scratching post, or a kitty perch where she can escape any and catch a catnap. A trip to one of our sponsors will surely give you a bounty of holiday gift options and ideas for your two, four of no-legged friends.