If you have pet lovers on your gift list, here are some practical and thoughtful pet gift ideas that won't break your pocketbook...

• Find unique and custom-made gifts for pets or pet lovers at Pets-R-Loved (www.pets-r-loved.com). This small locally-owned business offers custom embroidered items for dog, cat, horse and bird owners. You can choose from hundreds of stock designs or have a photo of your pet recreated in embroidery. Embroidered items include clothing for pet owners, pet Christmas stockings, pet-themed home decor items, and accessories for both pet and owner. If you're going this route, keep in mind that the last day to order stock embroidery for Christmas delivery is Dec. 15, 2011. Allow two weeks additional time for embroidery from a photo.

• Treat your pet or a pet owner to Solid Gold Northland's holistic pet food. Each of their brands contains natural ingredients that bring balance back to your pet's system. Eliminate pet problems with licking, chewing, allergies, and weight and improve your pet's coat growth and luster. They also carry pet treats with free range ingredients. To locate a store or to order product visit http://www.solidgoldnorthland.com/.

• Is there a special pet in your life now or in the past? Donate money in their honor to the Animal Humane Society. Pet lovers on your list will love this idea, too. Your gift provides shelter and medical care for animals at the Society until they can find permanent homes. To learn more visit the Animal Humane Society's website http://www.animalhumanesociety.org/. 

• Gift certificates can be a great pet gift for people. Whiskers To Tails Petsitting is offering Holiday Helper Gift Certificates. Call us at 763-746-8872 to order. Certificates cover the cost of one or more pet visits for a cat or a dog. What a great way to help a family meet its pet care costs during the holidays. A gift certificate for one pet visit ($25-$30 depending on whether it's for cats or a dog) includes an in-home visit with one of our pet sitters, food, water, playtime. walk and one of our video tail mails to gift recipient's email.

I hope these ideas put you in the holiday spirit and give you some trouble-free shopping for the pet lovers in your life.