Dear People Considering Pets as Gifts,
Who can resist the charm of a new puppy or kitten, especially during the holiday season? Yes, there are lots of deserving animals in shelters and rescues that need good homes, but the holidays are a stressful and busy time to try to integrate a new member of the family.
Before you give a pet as a gift, please make sure that the family really wants a pet, and that they can make the financial and emotional commitment necessary take care of a pet. After the holidays, the rate of abandoned animals soars as families decide they don’t want the animal or can’t take care of them.
If you do plan to give the gift of a pet, consider giving a gift certificate to a rescue shelter, that allows the person or family to choose the pet that best suits their lifestyle without all the holiday hustle and bustle. Include items they’ll need, like food, treats, feeding and water bowls, collars, leashes, toys, pet beds, etc. I promise, the excitement will still be there!
Happy Holidays!
Love,
Santa Paws
PS: There are lots of shelters and rescue folks out there that can use some holiday cheer, too! Money, gift cards, food, pet beds, blankets, collars and leashes, toys and treats can all help local shelters and rescues continue their mission to save animals.