The Totally Scientific Case for Spoiling Your Pet This Christmas

Let's review the year. Your dog ate one (1) sock, barked at the same mail carrier 214 times, and still greeted you every day like you'd just returned from war. Your cat knocked a mug off the counter while making direct eye contact, then fell asleep on your laptop during an important meeting.

Verdict? Nice list. Obviously.

The holidays are the perfect excuse to spoil your pet a little, and honestly, they're doing most of the heavy lifting in the cuteness department this time of year anyway. Here's why going a bit overboard is a good idea, and how to do it right.

Why spoiling your pet is (secretly) genius

It's quality time in disguise. A new squeaky toy is really just a ticket to 15 minutes of fetch, tug, or zoomies around the living room. Your pet gets your full attention. You get a break from wrapping things badly. Everybody wins.

Bored pets get creative. Busy pets get sleepy. A puzzle toy or a long-lasting chew gives your pet a project that isn't "rearrange the tree ornaments." A pet with a job is a pet who's not eating the Christmas cookies.

They get a hideout from the holiday chaos. Relatives, doorbells, and that one uncle who insists on doing the voice. A cozy new bed or a favorite blanket in a quiet corner gives your pet a VIP lounge to escape to.

It makes them part of the party. Stockings, ugly sweaters, a gift they get to tear open themselves. Pets are family, and family gets presents. That's just the rules.

Spoil smart: the fine print (but fun)

• Treats are the sprinkles, not the cake. Keep holiday treats small and count them as part of the day's food. Thinking about switching foods altogether? Ask your vet first.
• The "nope" list stays on the counter. Chocolate, anything with xylitol, grapes, raisins, and cooked bones are not pet snacks, no matter how good the puppy eyes are. If your pet does sneak something, call your vet right away.
• Tinsel is not spaghetti. Neither is ribbon. Keep decorations, wrapping, and ornament hooks out of paw's reach.
• Match the toy to the destroyer. Gentle chewers and full-on demolition experts need different toys. If a toy starts falling apart, it's retired.
• Not everyone's a party animal. If your pet would rather skip the festivities, a quiet room and a chew is the best gift you can give.

Gift ideas by pet personality

Every pet has a vibe. Shop accordingly.

Can't figure out which one you've got? Bring them in and we'll help you crack the case. No appointment needed.

Go ahead. Spoil 'em.

Your pet spent all year being your sidekick, your alarm clock, and your biggest fan. They've earned a little holiday magic.

Swing by any of our five Bone-A-Patreat stores in Des Moines to load up their stocking. Bring the pet. Bring the wish list. We'll bring the treats!

Happy howlidays from all of us at Bone-A-Patreat!