Photo Credit: Dog Krazy
According to the 2012 US Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook, 43 million households in the United States own dogs and 36 million own cats. With so many pet owners in the US, it’s not surprising that the pet products industry is a booming business. Our pets are part of the family and this holiday season, give them the gift of health.
“As the days get shorter and the weather colder, our pets spend more time indoors, with less exercise, leading to unhealthy weight gain and inactivity, both negatives in the area of good health,” says Will Post, President of Hounds & Gatos Pet Foods. “An easy way to insure your pet enjoys a healthy life is to use similar guidelines one would use for one’s self. If you instill good eating, exercise and sleep schedules, your pet, and you, will reap the benefits resulting in a longer and happier life”, he says.
It is estimated that Americans spend $5 billion on holiday presents for their furry friends with 40% of dog owners hanging Christmas stockings for their pets. Here are a few must-have holiday gifts for your pet to keep them happy and healthy:
Pet Food. Feed your dog well this holiday season. Avoid giving them fatty and bony scraps from the table, which can lead to severe digestive track conditions, and instead reward them with premium pet food that will help them live a healthier life. Purchase pet food with no additives or preservatives, such as Hound & Gatos all-natural pet foods.
Sweaters. Sweaters and jackets are not just a cute accessory. Pets with short hair have trouble staying warm in the cold weather. Buying a soft, well-fitted sweater for your pet will help protect them from the elements.
Toys. There are so many dog toys out there, varying in every shape, size and color. Toys are the perfect encouragement for pets to exercise, increasing heart health and weight loss. Buy an eco-friendly ball that is durable and bouncy to keep your pet entertained all winter long.
Time. When the cold weather hits, outdoor exercise becomes increasingly difficult. It is, however, essential to take the time to walk your dog, so use this opportunity to visit a local dog park and socialize your pet with other animals. This is especially beneficial for younger dogs.
“This holiday season give your pet the gift of good nutrition, one which will last a lifetime. Switch to a pet food made of 100 percent animal protein that contains zero artificial substances or fillers,” he says. “Just a few small changes can make a big difference.”
Cats and dogs thrive on a pure meat-based diet, such as the product line offered by Hound & Gatos Pet Food Corporation. The pet food is sold in over 1600 stores in the U.S. and 600 stores in Canada, and to learn more about Hound & Gatos, including where to buy products, visit their site at: www.houndgatos.com.