’Twas the night before Christmas Eve, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

All of a sudden, I heard what sounded like a faucet trickling in the bathroom.

Oh, what a clatter. I jumped out of bed to see what was the matter.

Peeping around the corner with care, there was lil’ Gizmo, straddling the toilet, taking a wee.

Sure enough, she’s learned to aim for the hole in the center of her toilet-training seat. If this practice continues, you know what that means? No more scooping out the litter-box-style seat. Fantastic.

When she finished, she stuck her head into the hole as if trying to figure out what had just happened. Her little carrottop head disappearing into the john would definitely have made a great Kodak moment. However I’m trying to respect her privacy—except for the fact I’m blogging about everything.

Pictured: Gizmo with her once-prized possession, the Leopard tunnel. Note: This picture was taken soon after Gizmo had an altercation with her hairdresser. Hence, the mullet and MC Hammer pants.

The internet is abuzz with re-gifting rules and etiquette for humans. So, how do these social standards apply to pets?

The good news is: if you have a particularly finicky feline that turns its nose up at nine out of 10 gifts, then loses interest in the ‘acceptable’ 10 percent of presents within a month, the rules are much looser.

Not only can you re-gift a cat gift, you can give it to the same cat twice. That is, if you have taken it out of circulation and hidden it away for at least two months prior re-gifting. Just ask Martha Stewart. Read more »

Even if you get everything your greedy little heart desires for Christmas, there’s always some lucky dog (or cat) out there who’ll get more than you. Here’s some last-minute gift ideas for your pet.

What did you say, again?
Most pets know how to speak their mind. Still, one Japanese company is trying to make it easier than ever. Brainchild of Takara Tomy, an electronic translator for cats and dogs hit the market in style: the Meowlingual and Bowlingual.

Yes. I said translator. The innovative tech gadget measures the intonation levels of cat cries and dog barks, then puts them in the corresponding human category of emotion.

However, to use the Meowlingual, you’ll have to first learn Japanese. But an English version of Bowlingual is available in the States.

Who knows, after opening this years Christmas gifts your pet might even be able to thank you.

On a real tight budget?
Iphone apps to the rescue: Pet Notebook: $2.99. While Fifi or Fido might be more appreciative of a plate full of food, this iphone app is a practical gift for pet owners. Aside from storing precious photo galleries, users can use the app to store important information like microchip numbers and medications.

Don’t forget to call your dog this holiday
What? Your dog doesn’t have a mobile phone yet? Check out the PetsCELL PetsMobility. Strap the two-way communication device on and your pet is just a phone call away. With a hefty $400 price tag, plus a monthly service fee, just make sure to read the fine print regarding roaming charges.

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