Greenville News article recommending Pampered Paws Natural Liver Treats
Pet gifts find their niche during the holidays
Published: Friday, December 14, 2007
By Angie Campbell
STAFF WRITER
Christy Wilson of Mauldin always includes her dog, Lady, on her Christmas shopping list, but this year, she hasn't decided what surprises will go under the tree for her 3-year-old Shih Tzu.
"I'll probably get her another toy," Wilson said, "even though she's got too many toys already. Really, I don't know what I'm going to get her yet, but I'll definitely get her something. She's like my child. She's part of the family, so of course she's getting a present or two."
According to the 2007-2008 American Pet Products Manufacturers Association National Pet Owners Survey, 56 percent of dog owners and almost half of cat owners will buy their pets a gift this holiday season. With only 10 shopping days until Christmas, those owners are turning to area retailers for gifts and gift ideas for their small companions.
Albert Baker, general manager of Petco in Greenville, said lots of customers have already responded to advertisements promoting a variety of holiday items and gifts for pets this year.
"The puppy's first stuff -- which is a blanket, a stocking and maybe a hat -- that seems to get more requests than anything else," he said.
Ellise Davenport, manager of Paws and Claws in Greenville, said several items at her store have also been selling well since December began.
"Sweaters have been really popular this year," she said. "Ours are all hand-knit, and we have a pretty big selection, from the tiniest to the biggest."
Both Baker and Davenport said toys such as loofas and holiday-themed stuffed toys for dogs are always popular gift items.
"We have everything from apparel to a stuffed Santa Claus to stuffed snowmen for doggies to chew on," Baker said.
Davenport said she recommends rope toys shaped like gingerbread men or candy canes to dog owners looking for hard-to-destroy items, and her store also carries a small selection of organic catnip toys for cats.
For the community-minded gift giver, the Greenville Humane Society also has a small selection of pet items for sale, and all proceeds benefit the animals at the shelter. Visitors to the shelter can purchase stuffed animal toys, balls and other common toys for both cats and dogs.
For non-pet owners looking for pet gift ideas, Davenport suggested one item.
"If you're getting a gift for a dog you don't know very well, treats are always a good choice," she said.
In particular, Davenport recommended Tail Waggerz treats or Pampered Paws Natural Liver Treats, both of which are locally made and available at her store.
"I have not met a dog that doesn't like these," she said, holding up the liver treat package. "My dog will do anything for these."
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