In search of ponies: Every day is Christmas for pets

They have no idea, really.

In fact, just a few days ago — when the dry kibble ran out and the bowls were topped off with canned food kept for just those types of emergencies — they thought it was Christmas.

And when the cold winds blew and everyone charged through the door only to find their bedding washed and fluffed, they thought that was Christmas too.

Come to think of it, they kind of thought it was Christmas not too long ago when that plate was left unattended at eye level.

When they hop up on the bed or squeeze their cold noses under an arm and get a loving scratch, it must be Christmas.

And on Wednesdays when the emergency sirens sound all over town, they stop whatever they are doing, gather in the yard, and raise their voices to belt out long, howling carols because they think it must be Christmas.

If asked, they probably would have pretty simple lists, an impromptu game of catch in the yard, a bone from the table (with the meat still on), a three-minute lead the next time they slip through the front door, a clean shot at the mail carrier without repercussions... or even an extra block on the evening walk.

Yet they're wrong.

Silly pets, Christmas only comes one day a year.

Not only do they have to wait because it only come once a year, they're just going to have to be understanding because it means everyone will be gone more than normal, be very, very busy and more than likely, a little (or a lot) tense.

It's not a bad thing really.

People just have a lot of pressure on them to find the perfect gifts, and balance the household budget and make the perfect treats and string the lights and deck the halls...

Sure, it gets a little complicated, and sometimes it's hard to see how one day justifies all the nonsense leading up to it, but it's all about the spirit of the season.

And if projections are any indication, while the furry ones wait for the special day in those empty houses, their pet owners are out there scouring the shelves in search of goodies and treats and toys and the like.

Not only are the people buying presents, they are expected to increase their pet spending in the coming year by about 15 percent more than they did three years ago.

Among gifts that might find their way under the tree: A treat maker that cooks bone shaped dog biscuits; designer dishes and beds; lovely scented shampoos and conditioners; trendy clothes and gift certificates to the groomer.

Perhaps there will even be a treadmill to help shrink the gut that grows while the pup waits for the shopping to finish and the people to reappear.

In all reality, maybe the pets have it right and every day is Christmas — every day except the ones leading up to it that is.

Full bellies, a warm bed, exciting surprises, love, sharing, generosity, joyous time with friends... After all, what more could one wish for?

And no doubt the crown jewel of any pets' Christmas list... for the people to come back, settle on the couch and be normal again.

Sharna Johnson is a writer who is always searching for ponies. You can reach her at: [email protected] or on the web at: http://www.insearchofponies.blogspot.com