Giving and Receiving – The Four-Legged Way What gifts has your pet given you lately?  Maybe the goofy face it makes during a good scratch gave you the best laugh of your day.  Maybe a nudge from its wet nose and furry head comforted you at just the right time.  Or perhaps a bright-eyed invitation got you out of bed or away from the TV and out on a healthy walk.  Our pets give us loyalty, joy and comfort year-around and no doubt your pet is listed on your holiday shopping list.  There are many toys, beds and accessories on the market but the best gifts you can give are the intangible ones.   First on the list is keeping your home safe for your pet during the season’s festivities.   Beware of bread dough.  If a dog eats unbaked dough, the dough continues to rise inside its stomach and could cause severe problems.  Do not put bowls of grapes, raisins and macadamia nuts on coffee table or other surfaces your pet can access.  Also put potpourri and candles out of reach.  Never put gifts containing food or other temptingly aromatic items under the tree.  Don’t leave alcoholic drinks unattended.  An ounce of alcohol can poison small pets.  Keep holly and mistletoe up high.  These plants, along with poinsettia and Christmas cactus are poisonous.  Keep holiday chocolates in the refrigerator or inside a closed pantry.  Skip the table scraps and tidy up all the ribbons and bows and wrappings.  Prevent the tree water from becoming an auxiliary water bowl.  Pinesap and fertilizers may make the water poisonous.  Stagnant tree water can also harbor bacteria.  Pick pet safe ornaments.  One tail swipe against the Christmas tree can cause glass ornaments to fall and shatter, leaving glass shards on the floor.  Avoid using tinsel and never use edible ornaments that might tempt a hungry pet. Another great gift is preventative healthcare including a thorough veterinary exam, heartworm protection and a consistent regimen of dental care.  Or you could schedule extra grooming time each week.  A bath with a quality pet shampoo and a good brushing to distribute natural oils, ear cleaning, and a few minutes of gentle massage are simple ways to help your pet feel its best.   Other winning gifts for canines are new activities like agility, freestyle obedience, becoming a therapy dog, fly ball, and mastering new tricks.  The simplest gift of all is to take your dog hiking in the woods or to a park or run at the beach.  Anything that involves physical activity and more time with you is sure to be a great gift for your dog.