Pets As Presents

Pets are definitely a wonderful addition to our lives, but giving them as presents is not always the best idea.

Yes it is lovely to hand someone an adorable ball of fluff on Christmas morning but a pet is not just something cute for one day. Pets are a lifetime commitment. They should not be forced upon someone as not everyone is in the situation to care for a pet or they may not want to.

If you are insistent on buying a pet as a present there a few things that you should consider before doing so.
•Always avoid buying on impulse!! Do not just buy a pet because you walk past a pet shop window and it is there, all cute and cuddly.
•It should not be a surprise – the receiver of the pet should be involved in selection process so that they receive a pet that is suited to their lifestyle and that they would really like to have.
•Only buy a pet for someone you know extremely well, like family or very close friends.
•Do your research – ensure that the pet would be suitable for the receivers current circumstances and possible changes in the future. Make sure their home can accommodate a pet; is the yard fenced, are they allowed pets, does the pet need to live indoors and will this be ok? Also take into consideration the receiver and their lifestyle; do they have any allergies, are they away from home often, do they have other pets, can they financially and physically care for a pet?
•Consider getting the pet from an animal shelter or rescue, this way not only will you be giving a person a gift, you will also be giving that animal a second chance at life.
•Don’t only give the pet as a present. Make sure you also supply the receiver with everything they will need to care for them over the next few weeks, like food, bowls, collar, lead, bed, wormers and flea treatments.
•Have a backup plan. Know what you will do if the person says no they don’t want the animal.

Remember, pets are not just a present for a day, they are a living creature that requires and deserves love, care and attention for a number of years to come.

I would also like to take this opportunity to wishing you and your pets all a safe and Merry Christmas.

Until next time,
Bec