RALEIGH, N.C. — My dog Baxter has the magical power of knowing exactly which gifts are his under the tree. Maybe it’s because they aren’t in a box or that he knows the special smell of rubber or fabric for dog toys. He knows! And his favorite part is ripping up the paper most of all.
I’ve been looking around the Triangle for special pet holiday gifts and found some great finds. Here are a few unique products and some local stores where you can make sure your dog, cat or bunny has just what they want under the tree.
Specialty butters for dogs
In addition to their human nut butters, they have a special dog line featuring Banana Flax, Coconut Chia, and Pumpkin Spice flavors. Each jar costs just under $10. You can buy them
on their website. I also found them at
Deco in downtown Raleigh! Pair the butter with a Boredom Buster (™) mat to keep your pup occupied and from chewing on what he or she isn’t supposed to chew.
Locally-made treats
We have several local dog treat makers in the area! Check out:
Cat Enrichment Toys
Cats often make their own entertainment (or just silently laugh at us), but they may also need a refreshed toy box. From cat nip-laced rolling balls to laser lights, the local pet stores listed below have you covered. Consider a special water fountain with fresh filtered water, a new feather wand or a new plant that is safe for them to chew if they are so inclined.
Bunny toys
Bunnies often get overlooked in the realm of pets. Don’t forget that they love to play and get exercise too! I was at the SPCA of Wake County last week and they had a stash of locally-made bunny toys by
Bunderland Toys. These hand-crafted toys are great for bunnies, guinea pigs and other small critters. You can also find supplies for your dog or cat there too and all proceeds benefit the rescue!
Local pet stores that have great holiday gifts
We are so lucky to have a great supply of locally-owned pet stores in the Triangle!
Here are stores to find the perfect pet holiday gifts!
Unleashed - Seven locations around the Triangle and two at the coast
Tara Lynn is a former WRAL reporter and anchor. She lends her 15-plus years in journalism to tell visual stories through love-filled photography for families of all kinds. The mother of three little humans and one senior rescue dog believes in celebrating magic in the little things, the big loves, and the imperfect moments that make the most remarkable memories. Her vision is to help families celebrate and share their love through photography and curated album artwork that become timeless keepsakes connecting multiple generations...because moments often pass in the blink of an eye, and the photographs we take connect us to our memories and our great loves, forever. 
