Humane Holiday Gift Ideas

by Stephanie Feldstein · 2009-11-27 07:00:00 UTC
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This holiday season, give stuff that both people and animals can love. Check out these gifts wrapped in compassion, and then share your favorite places to shop for a cause.

'Tis the season to vote for your values with your wallet!

The Gift of Adoption:

  • Animals should never be given as surprise gifts. Even when planned, it's best to wait for a time when the family isn't preoccupied with holiday festivities. Feasts, house guests, and potentially dangerous decorations will only make it harder for a dog or cat to adjust to its new home. Instead, give an adoption certificate, like Petfinder's Pet Promise, along with a few basic supplies for the kids to unwrap. You can also check with your local animal shelter to see if they offer gift certificates.

Wildlife Adoption:

  • International Fund for Animal Welfare offers gift packages ranging from $15-500. You can choose to protect seals from commercial hunts, save orphaned bear cubs, or rescue cats and dogs.

  • Defenders of Wildlife has over two dozen endangered species up for "adoption." Gift packs range from $25-90 and include an adorable stuffed animal, photo, adoption certificate, and information about your animal.

Treat Your Dog:

  • Planet Dog toys are durable, recyclable, and non-toxic, and the company supports adoption efforts. Proceeds from the Glow for Good Ball benefit the Planet Dog Foundation's mission to support canine service programs.

  • Free Range Dog Chews offers naturally shed antlers that come with the "Happy Deer Guarantee: No deer were harmed, bullied, or even teased during the making of these treats."

Treat Yourself Your Favorite Animal Lovers:

  • Novica offers unique, handmade gifts (including a great selection of animal-themed items) made by artists and artisans around the world. Shop through this link and a percentage of your purchases will benefit Pit Bull Rescue Central.

  • Dog Lovers Wine Club offers the perfect gift for the person who has everything. Choose from their list of affiliate animal charities to donate a percentage of your purchase. You can order bottles with their art print labels or your own custom design, or you can order from one of their special collections, such as the "Vicktory Dogs" series, which features rescued pit bulls and benefits Best Friends Animal Society.

  • Vegan Chic offers stylish, animal-friendly shoes and accessories (and gift certificates, so don't worry if you don't know how big your friends' feet are!). The products are all animal-product-free and the company donates to animal charities.

Resource Guides:

  • Check your list twice at Caring Consumer or Leaping Bunny to make sure your choices are cruelty-free.

  • Avoid giving your pet a lump of lead in his stocking. Before you hit the stores, look up the top pet toys on HealthyStuff.org to see which contain toxic chemicals and which tested clean.

Every holiday list should include a gift for the animals with a charitable donation to your favorite organization(s). Give what you can -- every bit helps, especially in this tough economy! Can't give cash? Ask your local shelter about in-kind donations. Most of them need everything from food to toys to bedding. Your ratty old towels and blankets can mean a warm, comfortable night for a homeless animal.

Photo credit: annia316

Stephanie Feldstein is a Change.org Editor who has been part of the animal welfare and rescue community for over a decade, and most recently worked for an environmental organization.
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