Gift Idea: Adopt-an-Animal

This is the time of year when every blog, newspaper, magazine, and website puts out gift lists. Guess I'd better get on that bandwagon. Well, maybe not an entire list, but here is one gift idea that I always advocate: Adopt-an-animal.

There are many organizations and companies that have programs like this, and here's the basic idea: you donate a certain amount of money to a wildlife conservation organization. They use that money to help protect and conserve the specific type of animal that you choose, and you get a certificate, information, photo, and often a stuffed animal toy of your "adopted" animal.

This is such a great gift because while there is an actual object - the stuffed animal - there is more meaning to the gift than "just another" toy. And it is appropriate for any age! If you have a young relative, this is a great way to give them a nice toy while also setting a valuable example by donating to a worthy cause in their name. How great would it be to build a stuffed animal collection that had so much good will and eco-friendly meaning behind it? It's great for adults, too - pick a friend's favorite animal and donate to that cause - they will love the information and photos, and will truly appreciate your caring and effort.

I have been given an "adopted" animal as a present before, and it would be a great gift again and again! It's a nice alternative to more meaningless "stuff".

A couple of good sites that list TONS of options for species to adopt include:
Defenders of Wildlife
and
World Wildlife Fund

If you're having trouble thinking of gifts to give this holiday season, consider an adopted animal. You'll feel great and so will the lucky gift recipient!

(above: red panda - how can you resist?!)