We’ve all heard the song “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” and there’s one specific verse that likely stands out to all of us more than any of the other verses: the one that says Santa’s making the “naughty or nice” list and checking it twice to keep track of who’s been good or bad this year. What’s worse than being on the naughty list right before Christmas?! Well, the good news is that you probably aren’t on it (because you’re a friend to animals!)—but these toys definitely are. So be a kind kid and leave them off your wish list this holiday season.

Circus Toys

The circus is NO fun for animals. Those in the circus, like lions, tigers, bears, and elephants, don’t want to be there. They’re bullied into performing dangerous and sometimes painful tricks that they would never do in the wild. These animals aren’t ours to use—and they belong in their homes in nature with their family and friends, free to do what they want.

Animal-Catching Toys

Life in a jar? That’s no life at all. Even the smallest animals, like ants and butterflies, want to be free—not trapped in a small container. Ask your parents or other family members for books about bugs that interest you, instead—that way, you can still get a close-up visual and see how cool and beautiful they are. Or even ask for a documentary or docuseries on bugs so that you can better see how they move and interact with other wildlife!

Farm Toys

If you wouldn’t eat your dog or cat, then you shouldn’t eat a pig, a cow, a chicken, a fish, or any other animal. Once we know that animals are hurt and killed for meat, eggs, and dairy “products,” it’s easy to make the compassionate choice to eat vegan foods, instead. So what should you do if you get a farm playset? Make it into a sanctuary! Sanctuaries are places where farmed animals (and other types of animals) can be properly cared for, looked after, and given the life they deserve after being rescued. The animals there aren’t used by humans, so they get to enjoy their own lives—the way they want to!

Real Animals

Animals should never be given as gifts for the holidays. If you want a dog, a bunny, or a kitty in your life, please ask your parents or other family members for a stuffed animal—not a live one. Animal companions need lots of care, love, and attention for their whole lives—not just during the holidays. Unfortunately, those given as gifts often end up unwanted and abandoned. ? If you and your family are thinking about getting an animal companion, you must consider all the time, responsibility, and effort that go into caring for an animal. And remember, if you all do decide to bring an animal into your family, make sure to adopt—not buy.