Best New Year Gift Ideas for Pet Owners

The holiday season is behind us, but it's never too late to talk about gifts. Even with the coronavirus pandemic, people still want to show their appreciation by gifting a loved one something truly special.

Now, even at the best of times, buying gifts is not easy. You’re always having second thoughts, reconsidering your choices, and questioning how well do you know that person, really? Well, for once, the opposite is true. If the person you want to gift something with is a pet owner, you’re in luck. There’s a good chance a good portion of their lives revolves around taking care of their furry friend.

So, let’s see what you can get them and make their heart melt!

The basics

These may be basic, but they’re still adorable! Who doesn’t love a cute pooch outfit (make it New Year themed – ‘tis the season, after all) for the upcoming cold weather? Cats are always fancy, but they can be even more stylish if you give them a nice fancy cloak.

Dog owners could always use another leash, so get ahead of them and gift them one now. You can’t go wrong with sturdy and practical, but you can also make it special and personalized. Are they crazy about the holidays? Get them a red-and-white one with a bowtie or a hat. Queer? Easy, go for a rainbow-patterned one.

A visual memento

Now we get to some really fun stuff! How about a stylized, pet-themed picture frame where they can put photos of their pet(s)? Alternatively, you can always give them a wardrobe upgrade by getting them an animal-themed printed t-shirt. Bonus points if you manage to make it a picture of their pet with a quote that shows just how well you know them!

However, if you want something really classy… why not go for some elegant custom pet portraits that they can hang up on the wall? Give their rabbit a regal look or perhaps give their dog a Han Solo outfit, the choices are endless!

If none of that strikes your fancy, just get them a nice phone accessory that will help them keep their pet still while they take wonderful photos themselves.

Rest and relaxation

We’re all spending more time indoors, and pets definitely deserve to be cozy. Indoor dog kennels are incredibly cute, and even cats enjoy a nice resting mat. There are way too many choices to list here, and you know your loved ones (and their pets) the best, so you’ll need to make the hard call.

Personalized Snuggle Sack sleeping bags are very on the theme, though… just saying. If you’re good with your hands, perhaps you can even make a cat climbing platform look like a New Year tree! Do keep in mind that using actual trees with needles isn’t advised as they can be bad for a cat’s stomach or even toxic, depending on the tree. Keep everyone’s safety in mind!

All play and no work

Pets don’t have jobs, so they can never have too many toys! Chew toys, bouncing balls, laser pointers… they’re all excellent and will delight any pet or owner; just make sure it’s appropriate for the pet. Note: don’t give a laser pointer to a dog owner; unlike cats, dogs get frustrated when they can’t catch this “prey,” and it can be seriously damaging to their well-being.

In keeping with the theme of the season, get them a snowball! Not a real snowball, obviously; but a lumpy white ball they can use to play fetch? Go for it! Alternatively, you want to give them a plush elf the pet can play with.

Cats require a bit of different stimulation, so giving them something more interactive is a better option. Check out cat puzzles and boxes where you can hide toys or treats to keep them entertained for hours!

Final thoughts

Honestly, getting a gift for a pet lover is probably the easiest job in the world. As long as you put at least some thought into it, you’re guaranteed to bring a smile to their face and joy to the pet. What are you waiting for? Start shopping!