ANIMAL COMPANIONS
Holiday gift ideas for pooch

Hawaiian Humane Society

The Hawaiian Humane Society has some helpful seasonal gift suggestions for the animals in your family: toys, of course, as well as the gift of your love and attention during playtime.

Young pets need lots of exercise, and if your puppy or kitten is ignored, he will make his own "entertainment." By providing a constructive outlet for your pet's energy, you can avoid behavior issues like biting and destruction. When you play with your companion animal, you are bonding with him as well as teaching games that encourage positive behaviors.

Without your guidance, puppies will make up their own games, so take the initiative to teach them games that you want to encourage.

Avoid roughhousing with your hands and never allow your pet to bite you or your clothing, even while playing. Teach your children that this type of play is wrong and encourages biting.

Make a special toy box for your companion animal's toys. He will learn the meaning of the words if you consistently say "toy box" and give your pet a toy. When he independently takes a toy from his box, praise him lavishly and reward him by playing with him and the toy. Through consistent repetition, your companion animal will learn that if he wants something to chew on, he'll find an entertaining item in his toy box. Hide yummy treats in the toy box sometimes to maintain your pet's curiosity. You might even be successful in teaching your animal to return his toys to the toy box when playtime is done.