Animals Reviews

For kids who aren't quite ready for their first real live pet, a Neopet may just fit the bill. These plush interactive dolls respond to the sound of their owner's voice with sounds, movements, and lights. Speaking to Shoyru, this bat Neopet, produces happy chattering and singing and makes his body vibrate and lights flash in his cheeks. Raised voices cause Shoyru to give a more subdued response such as, "I think I'm getting sick," or a competitive reaction such as "Impressive, but can you do this? R-r-r-r-roar!" Shoyru answers any yes-or-no question he is asked and has 50 different sayings altogether, including expressions such as "Could you rub my tummy?" and "Hey! Come on, let's play a game!" Shoyru also recognizes and interacts with all other Interactive Talking Neopets and Petpets and talks to them with 30 bonus sayings when they're nearby. This stuffed bat operates via three AAA batteries and makes a great first pet for young children to love and care for. --Cristina Vaamonde

It's hard to think of a better first stuffed animal for a baby than this soft and friendly little pooch from the plush experts at Gund. He's incredibly soft already and will likely become more so by occasional trips through the machine-wash cycle and a healthy amount of snuggling. He sports an attached fabric collar that says "My First Puppy," a brown nose, a white circle around his left eye, and a light blue coat. We know that dogs generally don't come in light blue, but we doubt kids will mind. --John Moe