How to pamper your pet in style

So many people treat their dogs and cats like children these days, that the pet industry is booming like never before. There's no end to the selection of products you can buy to pamper your pets.

TOYS

Pets are pretty easy to please when it comes to toys-plus, they never return our presents! Kittens go crazy for furry mice, ping-pong balls and catnip-filled toys. Dogs love rope tugs, floating rings and squeaky toys.

TREATS

Many people think giving their pet lots of food is pampering him, when in reality it's just the opposite. Feed them a good quality pet food such as Innova, Felidae or Canidae, and give them occasional treats. Freeze-dried liver, chicken and fish treats have no additives or preservatives, which makes them a perfect way to pamper your pet.

Homemade dog biscuits and cat treats are also healthy for your pets, and easy to make.

CREATURE COMFORTS

Since cats and dogs spend the better part of their day sleeping, an ideal way to pamper them is with a pet bed.

A wonderful way to pamper older, arthritic dogs and cats is with a heated pet bed. They're safe to use, and the gentle radiant heat will soothe their joints and keep them comfortable.

Believe it or not, many short-haired dogs get chilly going outdoors in winter. For them, a stylish sweater is not so much pampering as it is a necessity.

ATTENTION

The best way to pamper any pet is to give them the attention they crave.

The nicest thing about attention as a form of pet pampering, is that it's free. Animals that are petted and loved on a regular basis will be more content and better behaved.

Most pets like to stay close to their human companions, so let them sleep in your room and on your bed at night if it doesn't bother you. Try to play with your pet daily. Most dogs also need to go for a walk every day - if you don't have the time, hire a pet walker to provide this essential daily routine for your pet.

Pampering your pet should be all about what your pet wants, not what you think is cute or desirable. You may not be able to speak "dog," but if you really try, I'm sure you can tell the difference between your wants and needs, and your pets.