Gifts that give back: A gift guide for the animal lovers in your life

The holiday season is upon us, and now is the perfect time to consider what gifts you’ll be giving to loved ones this year. What better way to celebrate the season of giving than through thoughtful gifts that make a positive impact on the lives of animals?

Every item in this gift guide not only makes the perfect present for any animal lover in your life but also directly supports Animal Humane Society and our mission to help pets and the people who love them.

A variety of ways to help support AHS this holiday season

1. Cute and comfortable AHS merchandise

Give your loved ones AHS gear this holiday season! From super soft graphic tees to cozy hoodies, helping animals never looked so good.

All proceeds from our apparel help provide safe refuge, medical care, and second chances for the animals who need us most – what could be better than that?

Pro tip: Order merch by November 22 to ensure items arrive in time for the holidays.

2. A training pass or specialty class at AHS Training School

Give the gift that keeps on giving this holiday season! A training pass to the AHS Training School is perfect for any dog parent in your life, new or experienced.

Not only can a training pass help pet parents and their pups brush up on important skills like loose leash walking, it’s also a perfect way to bond with their canine companions.

With the frigid Minnesota winter approaching, specialty classes like The Nose Knows and Brain Games are also great for mental and physical enrichment – for dogs and their people!

Not sure which training classes your loved one and their pup would enjoy? An AHS gift card is the perfect solution. Gift cards can be used to purchase training classes, education program sessions, pet supplies in our adoption center, and more!

AHS doesn’t recommend purchasing an animal as a gift

While we’re always excited when one of the animals in our shelter finds a loving home, we don’t recommend giving animals as gifts.

Welcoming a pet into the family is a personal decision that creates big changes in someone’s life, and it’s important that the individual make that commitment on their own.

We do, however, suggest purchasing a gift card that can be put towards an adoption at a later date!

3. A Paint My Pet session

Gift a unique and personalized painting experience that helps recipients bring their pet to life on the canvas – no painting experience required!

During a Paint My Pet session, attendees let their creativity flow and paint a portrait of their dog, cat, rabbit — or any animal — under the guidance of an experienced artist. Paint My Pet sessions make the perfect gift for families, children, and adults alike!

4. A new toy or treat for the furry friends in your life

Spoil all the furry friends in your life by purchasing toys and pet supplies from one of our three adoption center locations.

Whether it's a new squeaky toy, a cozy bed, or delicious treats, all proceeds from purchases at AHS directly support the many programs and services we offer to help people and their pets.

Don't miss: Now through December 31, receive 10% off when you buy five items -- no adoption necessary!

5. Personalized socks of their pet

Are you looking for a special, personalized gift that any pet parent would treasure? Consider a pair of socks from DivvyUp! These socks can be customized with a photo of your loved one’s pet, child, partner, or even their own face. The possibilities are endless.

The best part is that a portion of the proceeds directly support the animals and programs at AHS. That’s a purchase you can feel good about!

6. Make a donation in someone’s honor

For the animal lover who has everything, consider making a donation to Animal Humane Society in their name. Your contribution helps provide lifesaving medical care, loving homes, and important resources to animals in need.

There are also lots of other ways to give back to AHS this holiday season, including making a Venmo gift and hosting your own fundraising event.

Give a gift to animals in need

The animals in our shelters would also appreciate gifts this holiday season. You can donate new items through our Amazon and Chewy wish lists, or drop off donated items like cat litter, leashes, toys, and treats at the entrances of our three adoption centers during regular business hours.