A cute little golden doodle, a chubby orange tabby cat, maybe even an oddly intelligent bearded dragon. Have you ever wondered what goes on behind those empty brown eyes? More specifically, have you ever wondered what your pet wants for the holidays?

Students at H-F are no strangers when it comes to spoiling their pets. Here, the average dog lives better than some people do, with their air-dried kibble and bone broth for dinner. But what could you get your furry (or feathery or scaly) friend that would make them think they had it all? A bigger tank for your tortoise, a ceramic feeder for your cat, a lifetime supply of pork-flavored treats for your pup?

Truth be told, there’s no right answer.

It depends on the animal. Ask anyone with a pet, they have their own picky personalities. Or they’re the complete opposite and they’ll like almost anything. In the case of freshman Bella Shaklee’s 11-year-old dog, Hannah, the perfect gift would be a squeaky toy. 

“She’s pretty quiet and she never barks. [But] she likes to rip her toys apart. For a gift, I’d give her a plush squeaky toy. She loves them.” Shaklee said.

Whatever the case, your pet’s personality is your ultimate gift-giving guide. Treat their behaviors as do’s and don’ts. Your pet has established from day one what they will and won’t love or tolerate. You know your Jack Russell terrier and Donskoy, and they know you. 

For senior Occie Ellis, he knows the perfect gift for his 18-year-old turtles, Michelangelo and Leonardo. “They’re active swimmers, [so] a bigger tank,” Ellis said. 

Think of your pet right now, and you’ll know what to give them that will make them know they have it all.