The holiday season is fast approaching and with it comes gift-giving season. DIY gifts are a great way to save your bank account and give a little more meaning with your gifts. Chances are you know a few people who are as crazy about their pets as you are. Here are some adorable DIY gifts you can make with a small budget and a bit of craftiness.

Dog Collar from a button down shirt

This is a super easy DIY present that requires no sewing (if you get the right size shirt).

1. Find a cute button up shirt
2. Cut off the collar making sure to keep the top button
3. Voila! You have a cute collar you can button on your dog. If it’s too big, you and always replace the button further along the collar for a tighter fit.

Check out this picture tutorial here: http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/originals/ea/ca/6e/eaca6e913be45161fb738b735b8cb19d.jpg

Pet First Aid Kit

(found at http://prettyfluffy.com/diy-tutorials/diy-projects/diy-doggie-at-home-medical-ki)

It’s easy to create a simple pet first aid kit. Get a container that closes so all the bits and pieces don’t fall out. Then fill it with essential first aid materials like

• gauze
• cotton pads
• bandages
• scissors
• tweezers
• saline
• antiseptics
• cold pack
• emergency blanket

Love the idea but want the easy way out? You can get a complete pet first aid kit from our friends at Walks N Wags for only $35.00 (http://walksnwags.com/cgi-bin/online/storepro.php)

Photo from original blog.

Vintage Leather Dog Collar

Another great collar idea, all you need is an old belt, some scissors, and a leather punch (or just use a knife if you’re ok with a rugged look)

Here are the simple steps:

1. Cut the belt a few inches longer than it need to be to fit around the dog’s neck (or get the collar size from the dog’s owner). You can cut it straight, or in a V shape.
2. Punch holes with a leather punch or bore the holes with a sharp knife (be careful!) a few centimeters apart along the first few inches of the collar.
3. If the belt has a metal loop to hold the end of the belt in, you can attach your leash to that. If not, you can pick up a metal hoop at most sewing or hardwares stores that you can simply thread the collar through.
4. All done! Wrap it up in a lovely box for a great present.

See the full tutorial here: http://offtract.com/vintage-belt-dog-collars-diy/#_a5y_p=1759530

Homemade Dog Treats

Holiday season is treat time, for dogs too! Here is a great blog post with 9 different homemade dog treat recipes like Carob Crunchers for wheat-sensitive pups or Best of Breed Dog Biscuits – A vegetarian, vet-approved recipe.

Check it out here: http://www.thekitchn.com/cookies-for-canines-homemade-d-135078