.

During the holidays, finding the right gift for a friend or loved one can be part of the fun of the season. However, creating or finding that perfect gift which is unique, personal and thoughtful can be a challenge. Sometimes the best presents can actually be a gift for those in need given on another's behalf. It's A Dog's Life would like to offer some suggestions of organizations worthy of your donations and support. Most or all of them offer a gift giving program so that you may donate to the cause on behalf of your recipient. Knowing you made a difference in the life of an animal can be as heart warming and joyful as giving the gift itself. The following groups are non-profit organziations that operate soley from private donations and grants.

Local Organizations
- Pet Orphans of Southern California
- Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA
- SPCA of Los Angeles
- Aquarium of the Pacific
- Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens

National & World Organizations
- World Wildlife Federation

- Delta Society
- Best Friends Animal Society
- Guide Dogs for the Blind
- American Humane Society

Because your dog is special to you, you want him to share all the special times in your life, including holidays. But to your dog, every day spent with you is a holiday, and he may not be able to appreciate or understand the strange people, noises, things and goings-on associated with holiday celebrations. Here are some ways to keep your dog safe and happy during those festive times.

General Tips
Stick as closely as possible to your normal routine. Try not to vary your dog's feeding, walking, and playtime schedule.

Don't give your dog scraps from the picnic table or holiday buffet. Cookies and pies, macaroni salads and stuffing, potato chips and fancy hors d'oeuvres, are inappropriate foods for dogs and may make them sick.

If you host a party, remember that some guests may be uncomfortable around dogs. Your dog may, in turn, be uncomfortable or frightened around a large group of unfamiliar people. You may want to confine him in a crate or a room that will not be used by guests. Otherwise, keep him by your side, or with another family member, to keep him from getting into trouble or underfoot.

No matter how fun the party gets, never ever give your dog alcohol.

Christmas
Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia plants are poisonous to dogs. Make sure they are kept in places your dog cannot reach.

Do not put lights on the lower branches of your tree. They may get very hot and burn your dog.

Watch out for electrical cords. Pets often try to chew them and get badly shocked or electrocuted. Place them out of reach.

Avoid glass ornaments, which break easily and may cut a dog's feet or mouth.

Do not use edible ornaments, or cranberry or popcorn strings. Your dog may knock the tree over in an attempt to reach them.

Keep other ornaments off the lower branches; if your dog chews or eats an ornament, he can be made sick by the materials or paint.

Both live and artificial tree needles are sharp and indigestible. Keep your tree blocked off (with a playpen or other "fence") or in a room that is not accessible to your dog.

Tinsel can be dangerous for dogs. It may obstruct circulation and, if swallowed, block the intestines.

Keep burning candles on high tables or mantels, out of the way of your dog's wagging tail.

Review canine holiday gifts for safety. Small plastic toys or bones may pose choking hazards.

Your dog may want to investigate wrapped packages; keep them out of reach.

 - American Kennel Club