new year of gifts

If getting fit is a petsolution in your family, and someone else has already clamored for doggie walk duties, let another family member get doggie driver responsibilities. Brookstone's new Doggie Driver ($29.95) works like a golf club, while also throwing a tennis ball up to 300 feet. Have pooch sit and wait at a safe distance while you work on your follow through, his doggie instincts take over as he fetches it back, and then the modified golf club even snaps up the ball for you, saving your swing hand from slobber.

Ever since I could tell May from June, my mom would let me choose a new calendar for Christmas each year. Not surprisingly, almost every time they featured some sort of animal. To kick off the month of January, here are some super-cute calendar ideas to add to your home or office. From monthly ones to those that feature adorable critters 365 days a year, it's a great way to have a furry friend put a quick smile on your face! I've collected some of my favorites in a widget below so read more

There are bunches of pet barkeries, bakeries, and bake shops that will ship treats straight to your lucky pooches . . . you can order up a new batch for special holidays or when your supplies run low. However, if you're like me and can't be bothered with the little details, sign up for a treat of the month club. Some companies offer a pay up front for 12 months plan, others have series of 3 month plans you can add or cancel at any time, and fear not, kitties, there's even one for you, too!

If you're not sure where to start, my top pick is the freshly-baked snack offerings of the Kool Dog Kafe (very popular in our Your Snack or Dog Snack challenges) – they have 6- and 12-month plans . . . and they include a free birthday cake for your pup's special month, free-of-charge with a 12 month membership. The yearlong package costs $19.99 a month, and includes all shipping charges. If you've got a house full of pups, here's a nice way to celebrate them – and, maybe they'll even learn the months while you're at it!

The holiday gift giving season may be near over, but your favorite feline still deserves some treats! If you happen to have a frisky, instinctive cat — or know someone that does — you can never go wrong with toys that spark playful fun and a little exercise.

I love the Fling-ama-String, a $25 battery-operated cat toy that aims to improve "paw eye coordination" and keep your cat on the move. It's essentially a long plastic tube with a string that moves up and down to tease your kitty. It hangs on a door knob, counter top or chair and will entertain your cat even when you're not around. To check out some other frisky cat toys I like, read more