Think Twice Before Giving Someone a Pet for the Holidays! We Have a Better Idea!

  Posted on December 6, 2016  by Joy of Living  No comments

Thinking of giving a pet to someone this holiday season?  While your heart may be in the right place, giving pets as gifts is not such a great idea!

Why Pets As Gifts Is A Bad Idea

Time and Money Commitment

Adding a pet to a family is a big time and financial commitment. If a friend or family member truly wants a pet, it’s difficult to select the kind of pet he/she is seeking.

Are you aware of that person’s schedule?  Pets need time with their people to stay happy and healthy.  If someone’s schedule involves frequent time away, having a pet isn’t going to be a good situation.

Pet guardianship involves a monetary commitment to provide appropriate care.  Expenses such as insurance, food and other supplies can add up quickly, stretching what may be an already shaky budget.

Allergies

You may not be aware of allergies affecting family members. Introducing a new pet to the family during this stressful time of year can really stress out that special dog or cat, too!

So, in the spirit of maintaining the excitement of pet lovers everywhere who wish to spread the joy of pet ownership to others, here are alternatives to make this holiday season a joyous one:

Alternatives

Gift Certificate

Instead of buying someone a cat or a dog for the holidays, give him or her a gift certificate for one, from you, so that he or she can go out at a convenient time (preferably AFTER the busy holiday season!) and make a selection.  Encourage that person to go to a local shelter or rescue to find that perfect companion.

Make A Donation In Their Name

If someone you know loves animals but is not in a position to own a pet, make a donation to a local pet shelter or rescue in that person’s name?  Shelters and rescue groups can always use monetary donations, cleaning supplies, pet food, etc.