This is the season for thankfulness and giving, being grateful for all the good things in your life, and that includes the pets in your life. For all you pet lovers out there, you know how important your furry friends are in keeping you sane and grounded during times of stress, and what season is more stressful than the one we are in now? Not only do our pets help guide us through Christmastime and into the New Year, they are driving gift giving trends this holiday season according to the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association (APPA).

Kelly Sutherland writes, “More pet owners will be buying Christmas gifts for their pets than ever before and spending more money on them! Traditionally, at least half of all dog and cat owners will purchase pet gifts this holiday season to the tune of 20 million people spending at least $210 million!”

That is a whole lot of money, money helping to inject life into the economy, but that is not the only important part of this gift giving process. Whether you are purchasing clothes, grooming products, or holiday treats for your pet or pets, it is important to give something a little extra to your faithful companions.

That might even include a trip to the veterinarian because as the ASPCA points out, “The holiday season is upon us, and many pet parents plan to include their furry companions in the festivities. As you gear up for the holidays, it is important to try to keep your pet’s eating and exercise habits as close to their normal routine as possible.”

As you are well aware, the holidays can throw us into a tizzy and our pets are no different, which makes a December trip to the veterinary a must if you think your pet is acting odd or strange. Sometimes we can be bogged down by gatherings and shopping that our pets’ health slips our minds. The greatest gift you can get them this season is to make sure they are healthy and happy. At Powell Veterinary Service, I am more than happy to look at your pet this month. Knowing your pet is feeling fine will make your holidays far more enjoyable.