By Paula Fitzsimmons
Not sure what to give your favorite animal lover for the holidays? This list can help with that. These ideas are suitable for every animal lover on your list – and they come in a variety of price ranges to suit most budgets. Of course, the best gift you can give is your support and encouragement . . . but the following items are sure to please just about anyone who cares deeply for animals.
There are a myriad of businesses and organizations doing good- this list represents just a tiny portion of what’s available.Here goes . . .
What does your favorite animal welfare group offer?
One of the greatest sources for gifts are nonprofits. You’d be hard-pressed to find one that doesn’t offer a membership or sponsorship program, or some sort of online gift shop or swag. Buying items through nonprofits is a thoughtful, and often affordable way to acknowledge someone’s passion for animals and the planet – while helping fund important work.
Check with local organizations – rescues, sanctuaries, arboretums, animal welfare organizations – to see what they offer. Most national organizations have programs, as well. If you don’t have a favorite, sites such as World Animal Net and Charity Navigator are a couple of reliable places to do searches for animal and conservation nonprofits.
Just a few examples of what different groups are offering . . .
• For $52 you can virtually adopt one of six of the Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary residents. In return they’ll send the recipient a certificate of adoption, photo and biography of the adopted monkey, and a subscription to their Primate Post newsletter. As a special bonus, and for a limited time, the organization is also including a plush primate toy during the holiday season.
• As part of their membership package, the National Audubon Society offers a one-year subscription to Audubon magazine (a great value right there), as well as special offers and discounts. Membership rates start at just $20.
• With a monthly gift of at least $23, your loved one can become a Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Guardian. This sponsorship package includes some neat perks, including special invitations to events, a custom “adoption” certificate, and a plush chimp toy.
• Help the Rainforest Trust save critical rainforest land by giving an Adopt an Acre program sponsorship. The Trust will even send a certificate upon request. There are different levels of giving; the most economical is $30, which protects ten acres.
• Donate at least $20 to Alley Cat Allies, and they’ll send you a copy of The Evolution of the Cat Revolution, a book by Becky Robinson.
• Know someone who’d like to learn how to become a more effective animal advocate? Julie Lewin’s book, Get Political for Animals is the perfect gift. Julie also offers consultations.
• Learn more about the Save the Chimps sanctuary by buying Gary Ferguson’s book Opening Doors. Proceeds directly benefit this worthy organization. It’s priced at $24.95.
• Save the Manatee Club offers a cool assortment of manatee-themed items, ranging from jewelry, clothing, posters, and books.
• Not just for kids! For a limited time, Defenders of Wildlife is offering an Animal of the Month stuffed animal set. Each month the recipient will receive a different plush wild animal and other swag. The package is originally priced at $398.00 for the 12-month period, but is on special for $248.
Discover hidden treasures
Earlier this year I ran an online auction to benefit the Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary in Kendalia, Texas. I had the pleasure of discovering dozens of new vendors and products. The prizes donated ranged from jewelry items, trips, chocolates & baked goods, cosmetics, clothing & accessory companies, and gift cards, to name just a few.
This link goes directly to the Facebook page I set up for the auction. It contains images and links to the businesses who generously donated. There is something here for everyone.
A few of these included . . .
• Christy Robinson‘s hand-crafted jewelry is meticulously created with recycled materials. The end result is a collection of bracelets, earrings, rings, and necklaces that celebrate her – and your – love of animals.
• Rescue Chocolate, where all chocolate candies are organic, fairly-traded, and vegan. You can truly indulge without the guilt.
• A one-year Thrive membership, which gives you access to wholesome grocery, beauty, health, and household products . . . at 25 to 50% off retail. Added bonus: they donate a membership to a needy family with each membership purchased. (I personally use Thrive and can recommend it, but please note that this is an affiliate link; if you purchase something as a result of clicking this link, I will earn a commission).
• Here’s one to please both human and kitty. Each month, KitNipBox will send a box full of cat goodies to your gift recipient’s door. If you purchase a one-month service, the box is $29.99, but the price decreases with an extended subscription.
What do you like to give as gifts to the animal lovers in your life?
