QUALITY OF PRODUCTS

High-Quality Toys and Treats: A great cat subscription box should include high-quality toys and treats. Look for boxes that feature products made from safe, durable materials and natural, healthy ingredients. Premium boxes often source items from reputable brands or small businesses, ensuring your cat gets the best.

Variety and Innovation: The best cat subscription boxes offer a variety of toys and treats to keep your cat engaged. Innovative toys that challenge your cat mentally and physically are a bonus. Variety ensures your cat doesn’t get bored with the same types of items month after month.

CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS

Tailored to Your Cat’s Needs: Many cat subscription boxes allow you to customize the contents based on your cat’s preferences and dietary needs. Whether your cat prefers certain types of toys or has specific dietary restrictions, customization ensures your cat enjoys the items in the box.

Subscription Flexibility: Flexible cat subscription box options are important. Look for services that allow you to pause, skip, or cancel your subscription easily. This flexibility is particularly useful if you have a picky cat or if you want to take a break from the subscription.

VALUE FOR THE PRICE

Cost vs. Content: Evaluate the cost of the cat subscription box against the quality and quantity of the items included. A good subscription box offers value for money, providing more than what you would typically spend on similar products individually.

Exclusive Items: Cat subscription boxes that include exclusive items you can’t find in stores add extra value. These unique items can make the subscription feel more special and worthwhile.

POSITIVE REPUTATION & REVIEWS

Customer Feedback: Reading reviews from other cat owners can provide insight into the reliability and quality of the cat subscription box service. Cat subscription boxes with consistently positive reviews are more likely to meet your expectations.

Company Reputation: Opt for cat subscription boxes from companies with a strong reputation for customer service and ethical practices. Companies that support animal welfare initiatives or use eco-friendly materials can be a good choice.

SUPPORT FOR ANIMAL WELFARE

Charity Contributions: Some cat subscription box services donate a portion of their profits to animal shelters or rescue organizations. Choosing a cat subscription box that supports a good cause can add to the satisfaction of your purchase.

THE BEST CAT SUBSCRIPTION BOXES

Now that you know what to look for in a great cat subscription box, here are some top-rated options that meet these criteria:

1. MEOXBOX

Why We Love It: The Meowbox cat subscription box offers a variety of high-quality toys and treats in each box, often featuring unique and themed items. They focus on sourcing products from small businesses, ensuring each cat subscription box is filled with special and thoughtful selections. Plus, for every box sold, they donate a can of food to a shelter cat.

What’s Inside:

• 4-6 hand-picked toys and treats
• Exclusive items you can’t find in stores
• Option for a no-treats box for cats with dietary restrictions

Price Range:

• $22.95 per month

2. KITNIPBOX

Why We Love It: The KitNipBox cat subscription box curates boxes filled with all-natural treats, fun toys, and health and hygiene products. They offer two sizes, so you can choose the right fit for your household. A portion of their proceeds goes to animal welfare organizations.

What’s Inside:

• The Happy Cat KitNipBox includes 5 items
• The Multi-Cat KitNipBox includes 7 items
• A mix of treats, toys, and other cat essentials

Price Range:

• Happy Cat KitNipBox: $22.99 per month
• Multi-Cat KitNipBox: $29.99 per month

3. PURRBOX

Why We Love It: The PurrBox cat subscription box focuses on providing a mix of toys, treats, and accessories tailored to your cat’s preferences. They aim to keep your cat entertained and healthy with a selection of high-quality products.

What’s Inside:

• 4-6 premium items
• A blend of toys, treats, and accessories
• Special seasonal and holiday-themed items

Price Range:

• $24.99 per month

4. PET TREATER CAT PACK

Why We Love It: The Pet Treater cat subscription box offers an affordable monthly cat pack that includes a mix of toys, treats, and grooming products. They also include a fun item for pet parents in each pack, making it a treat for both you and your cat.

What’s Inside:

• 3-4 items for your cat
• 1 surprise item for pet parents
• High-quality toys, treats, and grooming products

Price Range:

• $15.00 per month

5. PAWTY FUNBOX

Why We Love It: The Pawty FunBox cat subscription box focuses on making every month a party for your cat. Each box includes a mix of festive toys, treats, and accessories that align with the month’s theme, ensuring your cat is always celebrating.

What’s Inside:

• 5-7 themed items
• Seasonal toys and treats
• Unique accessories to make playtime extra special

Price Range:

• $25.00 per month

6. THE CAT KIT

Why We Love It: The Cat Kit cat subscription box offers a blend of toys, treats, and wellness products, ensuring your cat’s overall well-being. They focus on curating boxes with high-quality, natural products that promote health and happiness.

What’s Inside:

• 4-6 premium items
• Focus on wellness and play
• Natural and organic treats and toys

Price Range:

• $29.99 per month

OPTIONS THAT AREN’T TREATS OR TOYS

If your cat doesn’t enjoy treats or toys, or can’t have them for any reason, there are still great cat subscription box options for cat lovers.

1. CATLADYBOX

Why We Love It: CatLadyBox is perfect for cat lovers who want to treat themselves. This cat subscription box includes feline-themed apparel, home decor, accessories, and more. A portion of the proceeds is donated to cat rescue organizations, making it a gift that gives back.

What’s Inside:

• 3-4 cat-themed items for you
• The Crazy CatLadyBox also includes 2 toys for your cat

Price Range:

• CatLadyBox: $35.99 per month
• Crazy CatLadyBox: $39.99 per month

2. KITTY POO CLUB

Why We Love It: Kitty Poo Club offers a convenient solution for cat litter. This cat subscription service delivers a recyclable litter box and your choice of clumping or non-clumping litter right to your door, making litter box maintenance easier.

What’s Inside:

• A recyclable litter box
• Choice of clumping or non-clumping litter

Price Range:

• $21.99 per month

3. PRETTYLITTER

Why We Love It: PrettyLitter is not just any cat litter; it changes color to help detect potential health issues in your cat. This silica gel litter traps odor and eliminates moisture, keeping the litter box clean and dry.

What’s Inside:

• Silica gel litter that changes color based on your cat’s health
• Lightweight and odor-free

Price Range:

• $24.00 per month

Cat subscription boxes are a fantastic way to keep your cat entertained and pampered each month. With options like Meowbox, KitNipBox, and PurrBox, there’s something for every feline’s taste and preference. Not only do these boxes provide high-quality and fun items, but they also support animal welfare initiatives, making your purchase even more meaningful. For those whose cats may not enjoy treats or toys, options like CatLadyBox and PrettyLitter offer great alternatives. Treat your cat and yourself to a monthly surprise and enjoy the joy they bring to your home.

Ready to pamper your feline friend even more? Our professional cat sitting and litter box cleaning services in Austin and Dallas ensure your cat feels loved and cared for, even when you’re away. Trust our dedicated team to provide the VIP treatment your kitty deserves. Book today and experience the VIP difference!

ALARMING PET THEFT STATISTICS

Recent reports have highlighted the grim reality of pet theft. An estimated 10 million dogs and cats are reported missing annually, with less than 20% being recovered. This statistic underscores the urgent need for preventive measures, such as microchipping and maintaining secure environments, to enhance the likelihood of reuniting lost pets with their owners. Additionally, the rise in pet adoptions during the pandemic has unfortunately led to an increase in pet theft, further stressing the importance of vigilance among pet owners.

A notable study has revealed that 70% of US households are at risk for pet theft, with dogs being the most common victims. The emotional toll on pet owners is substantial, emphasizing the necessity of taking steps to protect pets. Breeds like French Bulldogs, Yorkshire Terriers, and Chihuahuas are particularly targeted due to their small size, high cost, and limited availability, with stolen dogs fetching prices as high as $15,000.

UNDERSTANDING PET THEFT

The reasons behind pet theft are varied, ranging from resale to puppy mills, collection of rewards from owners, to more nefarious purposes such as use in illegal activities. This variety in motives further complicates efforts to curb pet theft and underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to protect pets. It’s also noted that one-third of all American dogs and cats go missing in their lifetimes, with small breeds, cats, and birds being the most common victims due to their ease of theft. In light of these statistics, it’s clear that pet theft is a significant issue that requires attention and action from pet owners.

WHERE AND WHEN DO PET THEFTS HAPPEN?

Pet thefts can happen anywhere, but they are more common in public places such as parks, streets, and even from the pet owner’s backyard. Thieves may also target animals left in cars or outside stores. The timing of these thefts can vary, though they may be more likely to occur during the day when pets are left alone or at night in less secure areas.

WHY ARE CERTAIN BREEDS TARGETED?

Certain dog breeds are more frequently stolen due to their high value, either for resale as pets, for breeding purposes, or even for use in illegal dog fighting. Small breeds and purebreds, particularly those like French Bulldogs, Yorkshire Terriers, and Chihuahuas, are highly targeted. These breeds are often chosen because of their size, making them easier to steal, and their high purchase prices on the market. Purebred dogs, especially toy breeds, puppies, and designer breeds such as Labradoodles, are sought after due to their high resale value.

WHY DO PEOPLE STEAL PETS?

The motivations behind pet theft are varied and include:

• Financial Gain: The most common reason is the potential for profit, either by selling the pet to new owners, demanding a ransom from the original owner, or selling the pet to puppy mills or pet stores.
• Breeding: Purebred and unaltered pets may be stolen for breeding purposes, with thieves looking to profit from selling the puppies.
• Dog Fighting: Sadly, some dogs are stolen to be used as bait in dog fighting rings.
• Personal Desire: In some cases, individuals may steal a pet simply because they want that type of animal and do not wish to pay for it.

THE PARADOX OF PET THEFT

The irony of pet theft occurring while many animals are euthanized in shelters each year is stark. This paradox can be partially explained by the thieves’ motives, primarily driven by profit rather than a desire to provide a home for an animal. Many stolen pets are breeds that can fetch high prices on the market, whereas shelter animals may not have the same perceived “value.” Additionally, the demand for specific breeds or “designer” pets often overshadows the adoption of mixed-breed animals from shelters.

Despite the abundance of animals in need of homes, the desire for specific breeds, the allure of puppies, or the status associated with certain types of pets can drive the market for stolen animals. This underscores the importance of promoting shelter adoptions, spaying and neutering pets to prevent unwanted litters, and educating the public about the value of all types of pets, not just those with a high price tag or pedigree.

STRATEGIES TO STOP PET THEFT

Microchip Your Pet: A fundamental yet crucial measure for pet identification and recovery. Microchipping is inexpensive and gives a lifetime of peace of mind. All shelters and rescues scan for microchips with new intakes.  It’s important to remember to keep your contact information up to date with the microchip provider. 

Secure Your Home and Garden: Prevent easy access to your pets by ensuring your property is well-secured. Locked gates and security cameras can restrict access and provide peace of mind.

Leash and Supervise: Never leave pets unattended in public places. Never tie your dog’s leash to something while you run in a store or use the restroom. 

Social Media Caution: Be mindful of sharing too much information about your pets online, especially your location.

Use a GPS Tracker: For real-time monitoring of your pet’s location. GPS collars such as FI allow you to use app to stay constantly connected to your dog while also offering Lost Dog mode that will notify other FI owners in the area as well as turn a light on the color for easier visibility in dark conditions.

Vet Your Pet Sitters: Only use reputable pet sitting services offering a Meet & Greet before your scheduled visits. Reputable companies like VIP have the highest standards when vetting pet sitters, from extensive interviews, references and background checks. This ensures both you and your pet are comfortable and safe with the pet sitter. 

Participate in Community Watch Programs: There’s strength in numbers when looking out for each other’s pets. Many Facebook pages and groups exist in every locale that are dedicated to quickly moving information about missing or lost and found animals in your area. Look for groups by searching “city name” and LOST PETS, such as Dallas Lost Pets or Lost Pets of Austin. 

Keep a Recent Photo: Essential for identification in case your pet is stolen. Your pet doesn’t need its own Instagram for you to take frequent photos of your pet in daylight that show their coloring and characteristics clearly.

Spay/Neuter Your Pet: Reduces the likelihood of theft for breeding purposes. Animals who are fixed are also less likely to roam far from home in search of a mate. 

Be Aware of Strangers: Stay vigilant about anyone taking an undue interest in your pet. Pay attention to a new person repeatedly walking by and lingering near your home, especially when your pet is outdoors. 

A DAY OF LOVE AND VIGILANCE

As we celebrate the bonds we share with our pets this Valentine’s Day, let’s also commit to their safety and well-being. By adopting preventive measures and staying informed, we can protect our pets from theft and ensure they are happy and healthy as long as possible. Pet Theft Awareness Day is a reminder of the risks our pets face and a call to action to cherish and safeguard them every day. From microchipping to keeping a keen eye on our beloved companions, every small step counts in keeping them from harm’s way.

While we’re talking about keeping them safe, don’t forget that Valentine’s Day chocolates and flowers, though sweet gestures of love for humans, can be dangerous for our pets. Curious about how to keep your furry Valentine safe amidst all the celebrations? Check out our blog on “Valentine’s Day Safety Tips for Your Pet” for all the dos and don’ts to ensure your pets a safe and joyous day.

And if your day is packed with plans, don’t fret about leaving your pets alone. VIP Pet Services offers top-notch pet sitting and dog walking services, giving your pets the care and attention they deserve while you’re away. Our professional team is here to ensure your pets are safe, happy, and well-cared for, so you can enjoy your Valentine’s Day worry-free. 

Remember, love is not just about affection; it’s also about keeping our beloved pets safe and protected, not just today, but every day. Let’s make this Valentine’s Day a celebration of love in all its forms!

Here’s a down-to-earth guide to help you navigate puppy care during this special time, ensuring your puppy’s first Christmas is as merry and bright as possible. From puppy-proofing your festive decorations to managing the excitement and chaos of the season, we’ll cover the essentials to make your new furry family member’s holiday experience delightful and safe.

PUPPY AGE AND THEIR HOLIDAY SHENANIGANS

Celebrating a puppy’s first Christmas is an enchanting experience, especially when your little furball is brand new to the family. At this young age, they’re full of playful energy, ready to explore every nook and cranny of your holiday-decorated home. Loads of playtime, socialization, and potty breaks are on the agenda – just picture them zipping around your Christmas tree, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed! It’s not only about safeguarding your ornaments during your puppy’s first Christmas; it’s equally about providing them with the attention and activity they need during these vital developmental stages, ensuring their first holiday season is both safe and magical.

PLAY AND EXERCISE ON PUPPY’S FIRST CHRISTMAS

Puppies are like little energy machines, and this doesn’t pause just because it’s Christmas. They need their exercise and mental stimulation. Ever heard of the one hour per month rule? Basically, a 4-month-old puppy should be okay alone for about 4 hours. But with holiday errands, you might need a bit more flexibility. Hiring a dog walker can be a lifesaver. And for keeping those busy minds occupied, how about some fun, interactive toys? Think KONGs stuffed with treats or puzzle toys that make them work for their goodies – a great distraction from the tempting Christmas decorations. You might even try dog communication buttons which have become a fun way to learn to communicate with your dog.

FEEDING DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

Puppies grow fast, and they need the right nutrition to do so. They require specially formulated puppy food and frequent meals. With all the holiday cooking and guests, you’ll want to make sure your pup’s feeding schedule isn’t overlooked. And remember, no sneaking them holiday table scraps, no matter how much they beg with those puppy eyes! Puppies have delicate digestive systems and should be slowly introduced to fresh vegetables and small bits of chicken and turkey. Ensure your puppy’s first Christmas is safe by only feeding puppy food.  Save introducing new foods for after the holidays.

POTTY TRAINING TIPS FOR PUPPY’S FIRST CHRISTMAS

Ah, potty training – it’s always a hot topic with puppies. The general rule is one hour per month of age for how long they can hold it. But with the holidays, you’re likely not on your regular schedule. It might be a good idea to get a little help. Services like pet sitters or dog walkers can pop in for those necessary potty breaks, so you’re not rushing home from your holiday shopping or family gatherings.

PUPPY-PROOFING YOUR CHRISTMAS DECOR

The holiday season brings a special kind of magic with its decorations, sparkling lights, and, of course, the iconic Christmas tree. When it comes to your home’s festive adornments, puppy-proofing becomes an absolute must. Those twinkling lights, shimmering ornaments, and even the tree itself can be incredibly enticing to a curious puppy. It’s crucial to keep these decorations well out of reach to prevent any mischievous adventures.

Securing your Christmas tree is particularly important; consider using a stable stand or even anchoring it to the wall to prevent any accidental toppling by an overly excited pup.

In addition to these precautions, pay special attention to the types of decorations you choose. Tinsel, while a classic holiday decoration, poses a significant hazard to pets. If ingested, it can lead to serious intestinal blockages, requiring emergency veterinary care. Opt for pet-safe alternatives that provide the same festive flair without the risk.

Similarly, be mindful of electric cords from lights, which should be tucked away or covered to prevent chewing. Also, be cautious with certain holiday plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, as they can be toxic to dogs if ingested.

Remember, puppy-proofing for the holidays isn’t just about preventing a mess or safeguarding your decorations; it’s fundamentally about ensuring the safety and well-being of your furry family member during their first Christmas. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the holiday season with peace of mind, knowing your puppy is safe to explore and enjoy their new environment.

HOLIDAY HELPER’S FOR PUPPY’S FIRST CHRISTMAS

Overwhelmed? Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone. Professional pet services can be a huge help during the holidays. They can assist with everything from walking your pup while you’re at a Christmas party to checking in on them during long family dinners. It’s all about making sure your puppy is well cared for, even when your holiday schedule gets a bit hectic. VIP Pet Services offers packages built for puppies that include socialization, play time and plenty of reinforcement of potty training.

Bringing a puppy home during the holiday season is a wonderful experience, but it does come with its own set of challenges. With a bit of planning and some extra help, you can ensure your puppy’s first Christmas is a safe and happy one.

You may have some friends or family members that are dog lovers and you could be searching for some good gifts to get them. If so, you’re on the right page. The best gifts for dog lovers are the gifts that touch their heart. Gifts that they will hold near and dear to them and will last, forever. Let’s rattle off a few of what we and many fans around the world consider to be the best gifts for dog lovers.

The Bark Box

That’s right! As featured on the popular TV show, Shark Tank, the Bark Box has been consistently chosen as one of the best gifts for dog lovers around the world. A great thing about this gift is that you can buy one box, or you can subscribe and get a different-themed box on a monthly basis delivered right to your doorstep. It offers a unique way for your dog to try the latest snacks and dog toys that hit the market.

Canvas Pet Tote

If you love to carry your dog with you wherever you go, or if you’re simply out on a town outing, then the canvas pet tote would be a great gift for you and dog lovers in general. It is a stylish and enjoyable way for you to chauffeur your dog around. It has pockets for storage of treats and poop bags and it is incredibly durable and comes with a shoulder strap and handle for easy carry.

PitBull Tea Towel

Keeping a set of 3 PitBull Tea Towels in your kitchen is a great way to decorate it and show your love for dogs when you have family, friends and guests over for coffee, tea or dinner. These towels are 100% cotton-based, made in the USA and are made with a water-based, eco-friendly ink and this is great for those who are fans of green products and care deeply for the environment as well as their dogs.

Conclusion: The Best Gifts For Dog Lovers

Although these are only a few, they certainly make for the best gifts for dog lovers of all kinds. It is very common for people to prefer the company of a dog more than a human and there is nothing wrong with it at all. After all, we consider dogs to be our best friends. More than that, we look at them as family and while they have feelings as well, we want to make sure that they are happy, loved and cared for at all times.

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Like humans, pets enjoy treats as a part of their balanced diet. Some favorite pet treats include raw hide, fruits and veggies, dog biscuits or cat treats, and even ice cream that is safe for pets. Experts warn to steer clear of potentially toxic foods for dogs such as raisins, onions, grapes, chocolate or anything with caffeine.

Treat time…

You can find store-made treats at your local pet or grocery store, or you can make some on your own. For example, check out the DIY Recipe for homemade doggy ice cream.  This easy and safe recipe includes all the ingredients that dogs love such as peanut butter, bananas and yogurt.  Just freeze and serve for a refreshing treat on a warm summer’s day.  What a terrific way to end a long walk or a day at the dog park!

VIP loves treats too!

Here at VIP Pets, we love your pets as much as summertime, and would like to see how you stay cool this summer! We are running a fun-filled program where pet owners can allow their dedicated sitter to give their precious pets some Frosty Paws ice cream! Participating sitters will purchase and dole out the frosty delicacies, and take a photo or video to memorialize the unique summer experience. Throughout the summer we will post pics and videos of all of our pets and caring sitters.    

This program is a wonderful way to treat your pet and provide an enjoyable summer luxury for the ones we love.  Feel free to use Hashtag #dogdaysofsummer and send us your photos and videos showing how you and your pet are keeping it cool when the weather heats up!

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Valentine’s Treats For Your Pet

• Make your own treats at home! There is no need to pay a lot of money for fancy treats, you can easily make some tasty snacks for your beloved pet at home. You can make Carob-Dipped Valentine’s Day Dog Treats or the adorably named, Red Velvet Pupcakes! Try some of these other great recipes!
• If you live someplace that gets extremely cold then a great gift would be a pair of booties or a coat for your beloved pet, make sure to keep them nice and warm this time of year (but don’t forget the treats too!).
• A new bed. Nothing makes a furry family member happier than a nice, warm bed to sleep on. Why not indulge them this Valentine’s Day with a new pet bed!
• Dog or cat gift baskets make a great treat. Make sure to include a few special treats, some new toys and (for you) some treats good for their breath and teeth. You can either make them up at home or purchase one ready made.
• Nothing says, “I love you” better than taking time out on Valentine’s Day to play with your pet. Take your dog for a walk and give him extra time at the dog park. Give your pets some extra love and they’ll be in dog or kitty heaven!

Pets are pretty easy to please, and they are always there when we need them the most so it’s extra important to make them feel special every once in a while. Valentine’s Day is a perfect day to give them a few extra treats, some extra love, some extra playtime and lots of snuggles.

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Our favorite pooch-approved items include:

• Wine Barrel Dog Feeder by Bob Yates and featured on uncommongoods.com.
• KONG Extreme Dog Toy by KONG
• Top Paw® Pet Holiday™ Frisbee Dog Toy
• Nylabone Dura Chew Double Bone Dog Toy

Pampered felines will enjoy a toy full of catnip such as the 100-Percent Catnip Filled Chili Pepper.  Other gifts sure to please include:

• The Natural Pet Company’s Cat Toys Variety Pack
• K&H Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed
• PetFusion Cat Scratcher Lounge
• SmartyKat Crackle Chute Cat Toy Collapsible Tunnel
• Bergan Turbo Scratcher Cat Toy

For our fine feathered friends, check out www.drsfostersmith.com for a truly festive selection of bird toys. Some of our favorites include:

• Avian Specialties Christmas Bell Loops
• Vine Ball Christmas Tree
• Wreath Swings 

Finally, for small pets, ideas range from chew treats to run-about balls.  Ferrets in particular would enjoy the Pop-N-Play Ball Pit, Hide N Sleep Alligator, or Hanging Nap Sack, all by Marshall. Other Marshall products for small animals include the Woven Grass Play Ball and Hide-A-Way Hut.

We hope this post has given you some ideas and inspiration to round out your gift giving list.  What are your favorite holiday gifts for pets? Share in the comments section below or over on our Facebook page. Happy Holidays!