mypetfriends.co.uk

Ho Ho Ho – yes, it’s almost time for the fat man in the red suit to break into our homes and empty his sack of presents under our trees.  So, whether you are a cat like Kitty, a dog like Teddy, or some other pet, just what are you looking forward to receiving from your pet owners?  One thing we have noticed is that it might not be a simple squeaky toy or a bag of treats.  The commercialisation of Christmas means that many pets across the UK will be receiving lavish presents that, according to research, amount to an average of £80 per pet. 
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Pet accessories are many pet owners gift of choice, we know of many who have their own wardrobes to store all their pet paraphernalia.  Were not against pet clothing, as long as it's practical - for example, a coat to keep a dog dry or visible to others and road users in these dark nights, is practical but can also be attractive as well.  Pet collars are also very important, if your pet is ever lost, at least the details of their collar will enable somebody to contact you and make sure that you are reunited (my pet friends always recommends getting your pet microchipped as this is the best way to reunite you with your missing or stolen pet).
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But Christmas is one of those times where we must also remember those who are less fortunate than us.  There are thousands of unwanted dogs and cats across the UK who are abandoned and are looking for homes.  Many of these pets are healthy and fit, and would make ideal pets for any family who has the time, patience and money to look after them.  If you're considering getting a pet this Christmas, before you go to a pet breeder, think about adopting a pet; in many cases, you'll be surprised at the range of pets available.  We accept that some may have behavioural problems, but in the majority of cases pets are handed over to rescue centres because the owners can't cope or their situation has changed.  
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Although every year, we are told that dogs are for life not just for Christmas, we hear of tales where pets are abandoned by their owners because they simply realise that they couldn't cope or that their gift was unwanted.  No one would judge anyone who couldn't cope, but rather than dump a cat at the side of the road, or leave a dog to fend for itself in the local woods, hand them in to a rescue centre so that the rescue centre has some details about their background that they can then use to help re-home them.
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For those of you who take good care of your pets, and want to give them an extra special treat, we have a fantastic article covering recipes for Christmas dinner by Marie Rayner (http://www.mypetfriends.co.uk/Latest/Recipes-for-Special-Christmas-Dinners-for-your-Pets.html).  We know your pets are part of the family, so we know that you want to spoil them at Christmas.  But remember, certain foods that humans can eat poisonous for us dogs and cats – chocolate, grapes and raisins are the common ones, but also avoid Turkey - it may not be poisonous, but if your pet is not used to fresh food these could cause an upset stomach.
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If you're looking for fantastic presents, take a look at my pet friends pet store where you are sure to find plenty of fantastic gifts at affordable prices.  We don't want to stop you spoiling your cat or dog this Christmas, but think carefully about how much you feel you need to spend, remember we don't know the value of money, so there's no need to spend over £80.  To some of you reading this article, £80 might not sound like a lot, but when you consider that around 1.1 billion people in the world live on less than one dollar a day....ask yourself, do we really need that Santa dog suit, or Christmas cat hat?

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Merry Christmas and come back and see us again soon,
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Kitty & Teddy
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Pet shops, pet stores, pet directory – the movers and shakers
The McPetShop is a supplier of premium pet foods and accessories with free local delivery.  Why not see if they have dog and cat friendly chocolate drops? http://www.mypetfriends.co.uk/The-McPet-Shop.html
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Pet product of the month
We are loving the James Well beloved range of food; not only is it good quality food with no added rubbish or additives, its available to all in local pet shops.  You can also buy it online through the My Pet Friends shop http://www.mypetfriends.co.uk/My-Pet-Friends-FAQs/My-Pet-Friends-Pet-Shop.html
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Pet tip of the month
David O’Connor, Colchester: make sure you place chocolate out of the reach of your pets, or hide it where they can’t get it; chocolate is poisonous to cats and dogs.  (Don't risk putting chocolates on your Christmas tree, as a cat or dog could easily eat one that has fallen off)