The world keeps on changing. Doesn’t it seem like every morning we wake up to something new? World-shaking events make us pause and fit them into our daily perspective. Our own personal wants often shrink in comparison, and we find we are viewing the world through an ever-changing lens.
At least the one thing that never seems to change is the love we give to – and get from! – our pets. Having four dogs, our house is in a near constant state of chaos, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Our dogs make me smile and laugh every day, and that is something I cherish, espeically if I catch myself doom scrolling through social media. Our pets help keep us grounded and remind us what truly matters in life—the love we share with other living beings and our planet.
With the holidays approaching so quickly, now is a great time to think about how you plan to allocate your gift-giving dollars. Of course, we love watching friends and family unwrap gifts that they can wear or use personally, but a lot of people already have so much STUFF! They smile just as happily over presents given in their name that have an impact that reaches beyond their own home or closet. So, I put together a little resource of meaningful presents that spread love far beyond our own lives – and I think the animal lovers on your gift list will smile when they open them, too.
A Subscription Box That Gives Back
Subscription boxes that give back are fantastic! Dog Mom Lifestyles’ subscription box not only provides beautiful and fun self-care items for dog moms and their dogs, but also donates $1 to an animal rescue with every and every monthly box they send!
Know someone who would prefer their subscription box be all about their pet? The Rescue Box will send them a box packed with paw-lickin’ good treats, toys and chews, and you can choose small, medium, or large dogs, or cats!
Any pet lover can feel good giving or receiving one of these boxes!
Home, bath and body products that provide sanctuary and healing for women survivors
Thistle Farms is a nonprofit that supports recovery for women healing from addiction, prostitution and trafficking. They sell everything from candles to hand soap to coffee. Check out their website for all the amazing products they're making.
Cozy sustainable goods for trees
Backpacks, socks and beanies, oh my! Snag some sustainable apparel from Tentree and you’ll not only be gifting beautiful pieces but you’ll also join the mission to plant a billion trees by 2030.
Gift an easy indoor garden
Earth-loving friends – especially those who also love to cook – will love a microgreen growing kit from Urban Leaf. This is the perfect indoor garden for the colder months or for anyone with limited outdoor space! It’ll exercise their green thumb and they can also feel great about making sustainable food choices.
Support an independent artist locally or on Etsy
Giving the gift of art, pre-made or custom, is always a beautiful investment. Choose the “handmade” filter, and you’ll not only be giving a gift, you’ll be helping an independent artist.
These gifts pack a meaningful punch and put your hard-earned dollars to good use! What’s on your holiday gift-buying list? Double your joy by sharing your gratitude for your friends and family with a present that’s not only thoughtful and beautiful, but makes a real difference for the lives of others, as well.