Perfect Hostess Gifts for the Pet Lover

by Mary Simpson

Published: December 3rd, 2025

(photo credit: Olena Yakobchuk / shutterstock.com)

Ditch the flowers, lose the scented candles, and forget about that ho-hum bottle of wine. You’re celebrating the holidays with friends, family, and/or neighbours who have pets. And if there’s ever a way to win the best-ever-guest game, it’s reading the crowd.

That, my friend, means you’re about to explore the world of pet-focused hostess gifts. It’s huge, awe-inspiring, and can be intimidating, so we’ve narrowed the scope a little. Shall we begin?

Now, common etiquette suggests that this type of offering should be of a size and format that makes it easy to hand over upon arrival. Nothing bulky, heavy, or awkward for your gracious host to grapple with as they welcome you in and try to take your coat. Take note that with critters nipping at your heels the moment you step through the door, heavy scents that send Rover or Fifi into a yapping, yowling frenzy, will not be appreciated.

You’ll also need to have done your research. You already know they have a dog, a cat, or (insert other animal name here) , but you’ll need more than that if you’re going to zero in on that one perfect choice. Size, breed, age, and whether there is more than one pet will help steer you in the right direction.

With all the rubber chickens, squeaky bones and crinkly plush ducks out there, finding a quality dog toy that isn’t easily destroyed, overly animated and is trend-forward to match your host’s lifestyle can be a bit daunting. But this stylish plush tumbler modelled after the to-go cups we’re all toting these days is a winner. It’s perfectly sized for all breeds, light and easy for your pooch to carry around, and is machine-washable. We’re loving the details, including the side handle and plush straw peeking out the top.

If you’re visiting the home of a cat-lover, you know that catnip is the only way to go. But rather than opt for the usual tiny stuffed mice that immediately get lost under the fridge, why not up your game with this trio of Christmas-themed catnip toys? Lightweight, tall-hat gnomes are over six inches in length - so won’t get lost – yet are still easy for your cat to carry or bat around. This hostess gift is a great choice for multi-cat households. Crinkle stuffing, catnip-infused and a plush, bite-resistant finish make this hostess gift ideal for felines of any age.

When your host or hostess is a closet chef, finding the perfect pet-related gift that also ticks that box can be a struggle. Or not. Say hello to this four-pack of dog ice cream mixes. Made with natural ingredients and lactose-free, this healthy ice cream alternative comes in flavors of Christmas Cookie, Roast Beef, Peanut Butter Cookie and Hot Carob. Just add water, freeze, then serve up one scoop at a time. This time of year, it’s a tasty distraction for eager dogs when treats and holiday goodies are being passed around.

All dogs love the great outdoors – even when the snow flies – so why not thank your host with the gift of warmth? For their pooch, that is. Keeping with the theme of the season, we’re loving this plush, Santa-themed dog snood. The stretchy knit fabric ensures a perfect fit for medium- to large-sized dogs and protects heads, ears, and neck during those chilly night walks.

Everyone knows a dog-loving, barista wannabe, right? And when they’re inviting you over during the holiday season, you just know you have to find a cool way to address their java passion and love for their pooch. Enter this really cool, super- plush, Starbarks latte dog toy. Themed to match the holiday season, it’s a decent 7.5 inches in length – perfect for any size of dog. Lightweight construction is perfect for toting and tossing while the embedded squeaker is sure to keep Rover engaged. We’re obsessed with that cute little gingerbread topper, and while the manufacturer says this dog toy is durable, we’re thinking maybe not the ideal pick for heavy chewers.

And lastly, for the host or hostess that cohabits with a feline (or simply loves anything cat-related), this gorgeous little ceramic mug is a unique way to show you appreciate their hospitality. A generous 12-ounce size and dishwasher-safe, this color-changing cat-themed mug is heat-sensitive and, when filled with your favorite hot coffee or tea, reveals a beautiful array of flowers across the bowl of the mug.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and 2 felines who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Is Catnip Bad for Dogs?

Have you recently noticed your dog sniffing around your cat’s favorite toy? If so, you may find yourself wondering why your dog is drawn to something clearly designed for cats. After all, it’s called “cat” nip for a reason, right?This harmless-looking herb drives our cats into a frenzy of rolling, drooling, and playful craziness. But what happens if your dog ingests the leafy green? Does it cause the same “high”? Is it even safe? And, perhaps most importantly, could the herb that’s famous for making cats go wild actually offer any potential benefits for our pups? After all, we want to give our dogs the happiest lives possible, and that sometimes means exploring options outside of the usual dog-specific products.In this article, I’ll answer these questions and more.What Exactly is Catnip?You’ve likely seen catnip mentioned a million times when it comes to cats’ toys, but what exactly is it? To understand how it interacts with your dog, we first need to know exactly what it is. It’s much more than just a novelty for the kitties in our lives; it’s an herb with a long history, even in human tradition.Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb in the mint family. It’s native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, but it now grows readily around the world. In fact, you can likely buy catnip seeds in your local garden center. Historically, long before it was known for entertaining housecats, humans used it in herbal teas for its calming and mild sedative properties. It was also sometimes used to improve digestion. The reason catnip attracts so much attention centers on one specific volatile oil: Nepetalactone. This oil is contained within the leaves, stems, and seed pods of the plant.In cats, it’s the nepetalactone that triggers the short-term neurological reaction that we see, aka the crazy burst of energy that they get when they get near it. However, as I’ll explain in the next section, the canine system processes the chemical very differently. It’s unlikely to start zooming around the room after a sniff.Is Catnip Safe for Dogs?Returning to the original question of this article, is catnip safe for your dog? If your pup decides to tear apart a cat toy (as my girl Willow has done several times), should you be worried?When discussing the safety of any substance, we need to address both the potential for toxicity and the risk of discomfort for your pup. While the latter may not be life-threatening, we all want to take steps to keep our dogs feeling comfortable!Catnip is Generally Non-Toxic to DogsFirst and foremost, you can breathe a sigh of relief if your dog has recently tested the waters with the herb. According to organizations like the ASPCA and the Pet Poison Helpline, catnip is not listed as a poisonous substance that can cause severe or life-threatening reactions in dogs. If your dog nibbles a stray leaf or manages to sample the dried herb while chewing a cat toy, there is no need to panic. The plant will not poison them.Understanding “Non-Toxic” vs. “Harmless”While catnip isn’t poisonous, that doesn’t mean your dog should be allowed to eat a whole patch. It’s crucial that dog parents understand the difference between a substance being “non-toxic” (aka not poisonous) and “harmless” or safe to eat without any consequences.The risk associated with catnip exposure centers almost entirely on gastrointestinal problems. The digestive systems of our dogs are not designed to ingest large quantities of plant matter. If they eat too much of any herb or green, including catnip, it can irritate their digestive tract.The most common side effects of eating excessive amounts of plant matter are mild and short-lived, such as temporary vomiting, diarrhea, or general stomach discomfort. Generally, your dog will start to feel better as soon as the material passes. However, if your dog passes the plants and is still showing signs of discomfort, contact your veterinarian, as there may be a bigger problem to address.The Hidden Hazard of the Toy ItselfNow that we’ve clarified that eating some catnip from chewing a cat toy isn’t going to cause any serious harm, there is a danger associated with this situation that I want to highlight. Chewing a non-edible item (like a cat toy) can lead to trouble!Catnip toys are designed to be light, fluffy, and enticing for cats. But they are not durable for a powerful canine jaw, especially if your pup is a power chewer like our two! If they ingest a chunk of stuffing, the fabric or plastic pieces, or even a whole catnip mouse (yes, it happens), it can create a serious choking hazard or, worse, a risk of life-threatening obstruction.Always supervise your dog around cat toys if they share their home with a feline sibling. Immediately take away the toys if you see your pup starting to chew on them.The Impact of Catnip on DogsWe’re all familiar with the hilarious, erratic behavior you might see from your cat after being exposed to catnip, but what about dogs? If your pup does manage to ingest a little catnip, you may be surprised. The key difference lies in the way dogs and cats process the active ingredient, nepetalactone.Unlike cats, dogs don’t get “high” on catnip. Cats possess specialized receptors, particularly in the roof of their mouth, that are sensitive to nepetalactone. This triggers a strong, euphoric response when the scent is inhaled, leading to the reaction we commonly associate with the herb.On the other hand (or paw), dogs lack these sensitive receptors. While they can smell the herb, their brains do not process the nepetalactone in a way that causes the typical stimulation. Instead, they respond when they ingest catnip (either the leaves or the dried herb). 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Are GPS Pet Trackers and Fitness Trackers the Same Thing?

You’ve microchipped your dog and have a securely fenced yard, but there’s still that tiny, nagging fear… What if they get spooked by a sudden noise and slip out the front door? What if your dog slips away when travelling? Or maybe your concern isn’t about them getting lost at all, but about their health. Is your cat getting enough exercise? Is your puppy getting too much?For a long time, we relied on observation and tried to communicate as accurately as possible with our veterinarians. But today, technology has given modern pet parents like you incredible tools to help in this aspect of your dog’s care.In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of pet wearables, breaking down the difference between GPS trackers and fitness trackers, exploring how each of these products works, and highlighting their strengths. 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That position data is then sent to a server, where it can be accessed.Most trackers rely on a cellular network, which is why they require a monthly subscription, making it essential to have a cell phone plan for the device. However, others use a more traditional GPS technology that doesn’t rely on cell networks, allowing them to work even where a cell connection isn’t available.Once the information has been received by the network, it is then relayed directly to an app on your smartphone or a handheld receiver, giving you a live map of your pet’s location. This process allows for a virtually unlimited range, so whether your pet is a few blocks away or miles from home, you can see their location.The true value of a pet GPS tracker lies in its key features, which are all centred on providing security and peace of mind. Depending on the product you purchase, this may include:Real-time Location Tracking: The primary and most critical feature. This allows you to see your pet’s location on a map at any moment, so you can track them down if they get lost.Geofencing: This powerful tool allows you to set up virtual safety zones, like your backyard or a local park. If your pet wanders outside of this predetermined area, you’ll receive an instant alert on your phone.Location History: Most apps keep a history of your pet’s movements, so you can see where they’ve been. This can be helpful in identifying common escape routes or understanding their roaming habits.Durability: These devices are built to withstand the elements, often being waterproof and rugged to handle even an adventurous pet’s lifestyle.A GPS tracker is an invaluable tool for certain situations. It’s perfect for the adventurous pet who loves to roam, such as those who enjoy camping and hiking. If they become disoriented or lost in an unfamiliar environment, this will help you bring them home. 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It can’t actively track your pet’s location.Similarly, it’s also important to note that a GPS tracker is far more reliable and has a greater range than a Bluetooth tracker (like an Apple AirTag), which only works when your pet is within a few dozen feet of your phone or someone else’s.Some examples of highly recommended pet GPS trackers include:Tractive Smart GPS Tracker ( for cats and for dogs) Fi Series 3+ Smart Dog Tracker CollarWeenect GPS Collar ( for cats and for dogs) Halo Collar 3 Garmin T 5X (my personal go-to)Understanding Pet Fitness TrackersA pet fitness tracker is a small device, usually attached to a collar or harness, that monitors your pet’s activity, rest, and overall behavior. Think of it like a Fitbit for your pet, designed to provide insights into their health and wellness. These devices are less about knowing your pet’s location (although some due have GPS capabilities) and more about understanding their lifestyle.Unlike GPS trackers, which use satellites, fitness trackers rely on an internal sensor called an accelerometer. This sensor detects and measures movement. The device’s software then translates this movement into meaningful data points, such as steps taken, distance traveled, active minutes, and calories burned. This information is typically synced to your smartphone app via Bluetooth, meaning there is no need for a monthly cellular subscription.The true benefit of a fitness tracker lies in the health data it provides:Activity Monitoring: Tracks your pet’s daily steps, distance, and time spent being active versus resting. This helps you ensure they’re meeting their exercise needs.Behavioral Insights: Some advanced models can monitor scratching, shaking, or changes in sleep patterns. This data can be a subtle but important early indicator of discomfort or health issues that you might not otherwise notice.Goal Setting and Benchmarking: The app allows you to set daily activity goals based on your pet’s breed, age, and weight. You can also compare your pet’s activity to other pets of the same breed and age, giving you a better understanding of what a healthy activity level looks like.Health Reports: Over time, the data creates a comprehensive picture of your pet’s activity and rest trends, which you can share with your veterinarian during checkups.A fitness tracker is an excellent tool if your main concern is your pet’s health. It’s ideal for managing a pet’s weight, as it provides data to help you create and stick to a weight loss plan. It’s also invaluable for monitoring recovery after an injury or surgery, as it allows you to see gradual improvements in activity.For aging pets, a fitness tracker can help you track mobility and identify potential signs of conditions like arthritis. Ultimately, it’s for any pet parent who wants to be more proactive about their pet’s long-term well-being and ensure they are getting a balanced, healthy life.Some examples of helpful pet fitness trackers include: FitBark Activity Monitor Link GPS Dog Tracker + Activity Monitor PetPace AI Health Monitor Minitailz Health & GPS Tracker for Dogs

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Is the Dog Park Right for Your Dog? Weighing the Risks vs. the Rewards

Seeing my dogs running full-out across an open field always makes me smile. It’s a level of joy we aim for. However, finding the best place to let them run and play can be challenging. While a grassy field or private property is an amazing find, they aren’t always convenient, especially if you live in the city.For many, the local dog park seems like the most accessible option. These dog-specific spaces are often marketed as the perfect solution for dogs to burn energy and practice their socialization skills. However, if you’ve been researching the topic, you’ve likely noticed that the subject is very polarizing. Many trainers and behaviorists are speaking up about the potential risks of bringing dogs to these spaces, raising major concerns for those considering them.This raises an important question: How do you decide if a dog park is actually a good fit for the unique needs and personality quirks of your dog?In this post, I will deep dive into both the pros and cons of dog parks. It will be a neutral look at the key benefits and the very real risks associated with off-leash dog exercise areas, allowing you to make an informed decision. There is no “right” answer. The best choice is always the one that’s right for your individual dog!The “Pros”: Benefits of Visiting the Dog ParkWhen the dog park environment works well, it can offer some incredible benefits for your dog’s physical and mental health. The concept truly makes sense! These advantages are often why dedicated dog parents are drawn to the idea in the first place.A Place to Release EnergyFor many dogs, particularly those living in urban or suburban locations without a large, securely fenced yard, the dog park is one of the only places they can truly run free. This isn’t just about a structured walk or fun sniffari; it’s about unrestricted opportunities to run, gallop, chase, and reach their top speeds.This type of vigorous, off-leash activity may not be essential for every dog, but for high-energy breeds and young adults, it goes a long way to help address their needs. When a dog can burn off pent-up energy, they are far less likely to start engaging in boredom-driven behaviors at home, such as chewing furniture and shoes, excessive barking, or destructive mischief.Some high-energy dogs that may require more exercise to meet their physical needs include: Australian Cattle Dogs Border Collie Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Terrier Siberian Husky Belgian MalinoisSocialization OpportunitiesOne of the most significant benefits many bring up related to the use of dog parks is the opportunity for socialization with other dogs. Socialization itself, when introduced properly, is extremely valuable. Dogs are social animals, and interacting with other dogs allows them to practice and refine their species-specific communication. It allows them to learn to “speak dog” fluently by encountering different play styles, temperaments, sizes, and breeds.This helps many dogs to become more comfortable and neutral around unfamiliar dogs. They learn key social skills like initiating play, accepting invitations to engage with others, and most importantly, recognizing and respecting social cues like when to back off, when to be submissive, and how to signal that they want to play.For a well-adjusted dog, positive dog park visits can build confidence and help them stay calm and balanced when meeting new dogs while out and about.Mental Stimulation and EnrichmentBeyond the physical workout, a trip to the dog park is also an excellent opportunity for much-needed mental enrichment. Your dog’s brain is constantly engaged during their visit by the sheer volume of new sights, sounds, and smells. Visiting new and unfamiliar environments like this is great for your dog’s mental health.The dog park is a constantly changing experience of other dogs, toys, people, and smells, requiring your dog to take everything in quickly and make regular snap decisions. This mental “work” is just as tiring and fulfilling as physical exercise, if not more so.Additionally, a dog park can also help to create a sense of community for dog parents. It’s one of the few places you can connect, share tips, trade stories, and make new dog-loving friends. This sense of connection can help many aspects of life with a dog (especially if you’re struggling with a challenge and feeling alone).The “Cons”: Risks and Challenges of the Dog Park While there is no debating the fact that dog parks offer many potential benefits, experts recommend approaching these areas with caution. For some dogs, the risks and challenges of these locations will outweigh the rewards. This is where a neutral assessment of whether a dog park is right for your dog is so important. Many of these drawbacks are serious considerations when considering a dog’s long-term health and behavioral stability. Health and Safety Concerns With many dogs coming together and sharing resources in a single environment, there are several health and safety risks that may be elevated and should be considered. The first major concern is the potential for infectious diseases to be easily transmitted. The high number of dogs means a higher probability of spreading common illnesses, especially if other dog parents (who you have no control over) are choosing the bring their dog out even when they are sick. Diseases like kennel cough, canine influenza, and intestinal parasites such as Giardia and Coccidia are easily transmitted through shared water bowls, sniffed-up ground, or direct dog-to-dog contact. Even fully vaccinated dogs can be exposed to strains not covered by standard shots. That said, they do help to lower your dog’s risk, making up-to-date vaccinations (including optional vaccinations, especially in higher risk areas of the country) and dedication to parasite control essential before visiting a dog park. Beyond illness, there is a constant risk of injury. Despite the fun, dog parks are definitely accident-prone zones. Common injuries in these areas can range from minor scuffles to severe trauma. This also isn’t exclusive to aggressive or unfriendly dogs! Dogs running at full speed can collide, leading to bone fractures or ligament tears. Even seemingly harmless rough play can escalate quickly, resulting in bites. The environment itself can also be a hazard, with uneven surfaces, discarded trash, or foreign objects that could cause cuts or be ingested, leading to potentially life-threatening obstructions.

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What Are the Signs of Dental Disease in Cats?

What would you do if someone told you there is a hidden issue silently affecting the comfort and well-being of many beloved kitties, something we might not even notice until it becomes a significant (and painful) problem?That hidden issue is feline dental disease.Dental problems are incredibly common, affecting a surprisingly high number of cats. Studies have found that between 50 and 90% of cats over the age of four are currently living with some form of dental disease, but it often goes unnoticed because our feline friends are masters of hiding pain.This guide will help you learn to recognize even the most subtle warning signs that your cat may be dealing with dental problems, the most common types of dental disease in cats, and how to prioritize dental care to prevent a problem before it develops.Understanding Dental Problems in CatsIt’s easy to assume that if your cat is acting normally, their mouth is fine. But the reality is that dental disease is a progressive struggle that often starts small and silently gets worse over time.It begins when bacteria in your cat’s mouth mix with food particles and saliva to form plaque – a soft, sticky film that coats their teeth. If that plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar. Once tartar forms, it creates a rough surface that allows even more plaque to accumulate, laying the foundation for more serious issues to develop.While that summarizes the basics, dental disease isn’t a single problem. Instead, as the plaque and tartar continue to get worse, it can develop into a spectrum of conditions. Understanding these different conditions is the first step toward recognizing that your cat might be suffering and taking the necessary steps to help them feel better.GingivitisThis is the earliest stage of dental disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums. It’s primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque and bacteria along the gum line. You may notice your cat’s gums appearing red, swollen, or even bleeding easily, especially when touched or when your cat eats. You may also see small amounts of blood on your cat’s favourite chew toys.The good news is that gingivitis is often reversible with professional veterinary dental cleaning and consistent at-home dental care. The key to success is catching it early!Periodontal DiseaseIf gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease. This is a much more serious condition that affects not just the gums but also the deeper structures that support the tooth, such as the bone and ligaments that hold the tooth in its socket. The bacteria and inflammation start to destroy these supporting structures, leading to the formation of “pockets” under the gumline where bacteria can accumulate.The damage caused by periodontal disease ultimately leads to bone loss, receding gums, and eventually, painful tooth loss. Unlike gingivitis, advanced periodontal disease is often irreversible, although its progression can be managed to avoid further complications. Your vet can also help with pain management to keep your cat comfortable.Tooth ResorptionIf you haven’t heard of this before, you’re not alone. This incredibly common and often very painful condition is unique to cats and one that many cat parents are unfamiliar with. It occurs when cells called odontoclasts, which are typically involved in tooth development, begin to erode and destroy the tooth's structure. This condition often begins inside the tooth or below the gum line.Because the lesions often start below the gum line, they can be difficult to spot without X-rays. However, affected cats may show signs of pain when eating (suddenly dropping food, chattering their jaws, reluctance to chew on one side), drooling, or increased sensitivity when the mouth is touched.StomatitisThis is a severe, widespread, and extremely painful inflammation of the entire mouth, not just the gums around the teeth. It can affect the gums, tongue, cheeks, and the back of the throat. Stomatitis is often an immune-mediated condition caused by the cat’s immune system overreacting to the bacteria and plaque in their mouth.Cats with stomatitis are in severe pain, massively impacting their quality of life. They are often uninterested in or unable to eat, excessively drooling, and may have very bad breath. Managing stomatitis can be challenging and usually requires aggressive treatment. In many cases, it will require full-month tooth extractions to relieve the pain and inflammation.Fractured TeethJust like humans, cats can fracture their teeth. This can happen from chewing on hard objects (like certain toys) or from trauma, such as a big fall. A previous cat of my own suffered a fractured tooth after slipping off a bookshelf she was trying to climb.When a tooth is fractured, it can expose the sensitive inner portion, which contains nerves and blood vessels. This is incredibly painful and also creates an open pathway for bacteria to enter, leading to infections and the formation of abscesses. For this reason, fractured teeth require immediate vet attention to both prevent infection and address your cat’s pain.Warning Signs of Dental DiseaseThe tricky part about dental disease is the fact that cats are masters of disguise. In the wild, showing any sign of weakness (like pain or illness) could make them vulnerable to predators. Despite their shift into life as a pampered housecat, the instinct to hide their pain remains strong. Often, they will suffer in silence, and by the time we notice something is wrong, the condition has progressed to more advanced stages.This is why it’s so crucial for us to be in tune with our cats and aware of even the most subtle changes. Don’t wait for your cat to scream in pain.Behavioral Changes (Often Subtle)These are the most common red flags, but they require a keen eye and understanding of your cat’s everyday habits. After all, no one knows your cat better than you.You might first notice changes in their eating habits. Your cat might start chewing more slowly, dropping pieces of food, or tilting their head to one side while chewing to avoid a painful area. If your cat suddenly seems picky about their dry food or treats, but eagerly digs into their wet food, it could be a sign that chewing hard kibble is simply too painful. Even a slight change in appetite or less enthusiasm at mealtimes should warrant investigation. Changes in grooming are another subtle sign. If your cat is experiencing pain from dental problems, self-grooming may be uncomfortable, painful, or impossible. You may notice that your cat has developed matted fur, their coat appears unkempt, or there are bits of food remaining around their mouth after a meal.A previously social cat might start hiding more often or avoid interacting with other pets or people in the home. If your cat normally enjoys head scratches but suddenly flinches or reacts negatively when you even lightly touch their mouth or face, it’s a strong sign that they’re in pain. A general lack of energy or disinterest in play, especially their favorite games, could also be a sign that something’s wrong.Watch out for excessive drooling. While some cats might drool when happy, persistent or excessive drooling, especially if it’s thick, discolored, or contains streaks of blood, is a major warning sign. This can be a sign of pain, nausea, or difficulty swallowing comfortably.Finally, you may notice your cat pawing at their mouth or face. They might bat at their mouth with a paw, rub their face on furniture or the floor, or repeatedly yawn or make chewing motions. These are all attempts to alleviate the pain and discomfort they are experiencing. This is a clear sign that something is bothering them.

How to Support Your Senior Dog This Winter

Thoughtful comfort, easier mobility, and purposeful play for pets in their golden years.As temperatures drop, many senior dogs slow down even more. Colder weather can stiffen aging joints, reduce mobility, and make everyday routines feel harder than they used to. So, as winter approaches, many pet parents look for ways to help their older dogs stay comfortable, active, and content.And that’s where Petmate steps in as a thoughtful solution. Known for practical, well-designed pet products, this brand is focused on supporting aging dogs with comfort-driven essentials. Their senior-focused winter collection is curated specifically to meet the needs of older pups when they need support the most.

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