Avoid Giving Pets as Gifts, Shelter Advises

Many people this time of year are deciding to add a puppy or kitten to their gift list, but giving a pet as a Christmas gift may not be the best idea.

The notion of Grandma surprising her grandchildren with a fluffy kitten under the tree sounds like a lovely scene on Christmas morning, but it might not be what the parents want, since they’re the ones who will likely be taking care of the pet.

According to Sheri Lockhart, director of the Northeast Georgia Animal Shelter in Lavonia, picking out a pet is a personal choice.

“We recommend that you bring in whoever is wanting to adopt an animal and let them pick out the pet,” she said. “That way they will be more likely to bond with that animal and you will be sure it’s the right pet for them.”

According to the ASPCA, more pets are dropped off at shelters after Christmas than at any other time of the year by people who got a puppy or kitten for Christmas they didn’t ask for.   Lockhart said her staff sees it every year.

“We see a lot of puppies and kittens returned after Christmas because people will buy a pet or adopt one  (as a gift) and it’s not the right fit, or it wasn’t wanted in the first place,” Lockhart said. “Once someone brings a pet into their home, we want that pet to be part of their family for its entire lifetime and not have to bring it to the shelter.”

But if you are considering giving a pet as a gift, there are some things to consider.  First, does that person really want a pet? Also, are they committed to caring for the pet for its entire lifetime?  If the person who wants a pet is elderly, they may not have the ability to handle an active puppy or kitten.

If there are children involved, how old are they and what size dog would be right for their age group?  Lockhart advises instead of adopting for someone, give a gift certificate instead.

“We do have gift certificates available at the shelter and we recommend giving a certificate and then letting the person come in themselves and pick out a pet they want,” Lockhart said.

Another idea is to buy the pet’s toys, leash, collar, and bed and put those items under the tree and then go with them to pick out the dog or cat and pay the adoption fee for them.

The Northeast Georgia Animal Shelter is located on Bear Creek Road in Lavonia.  To see what dogs and cats they have available you can stop by today through Saturday between 11a and 4p or visit their Facebook page online.