Capital Online, aka HometownAnnapolis.com has a great article on Bringing A New Pet Home For The Holidays.
It is true that many families give their children young puppies as Christmas presents, and this is sometimes a very, very bad idea, especially if the the parents are not totally committed to taking responsibility for the pet. As this article points out, a pet is a 10-15 year commitment and along the way, there are training, grooming, vet bills and many more bumps in the road. Parents must be willing to give this pet the best home that they can provide, for the life of the pet.
Families should do their research before adopting a pet, checking into various breeds, and how to best raise them. Also, families should “pet proof” their home, similar to “child proofing” their house. If a family is ready for a pet, has done their research and found the right breed, then the next step is to research whether or not they really are up for the long term commitment. All members of the family must be ready to pitch in, helping with walks, feedings and play time if possible.
If all of these elements are in place, then bringing a pet home as a present is fine.
3 responses so far ↓
1 Penny Leisch // Dec 28, 2007 at 7:35 pm
I heartily agree. As a Pet Consultant, I usually get called to help after a problem develops due to lack of time, lack of training, or lack of preparation. Thanks for helping educate people. It truly saves the lives of many animals.
2 dogsRbetter // Dec 29, 2007 at 3:43 pm
I totally agree! It is very important to ask parents if they feel that caring for a pet is a good way to “teach responsibility”. Loving any animal is a great way to teach caring, compassion, tenderness, etc. but a terrible burden otherwise! A child should feel free to enjoy his pet. If parents don’t want to do the daily chores then getting any pet is a bad idea. Don’t make your child RESENT his pet! I also advise that you give a few items, such as leash, collar, bowls along with a certificate for the pet. Allow the child to choose his or her own companion as the one you prefer may not be the one your child will most appreciate! Best wishes from me and the Akitas!
3 YorkiesGalore // Jan 3, 2008 at 4:15 am
Yes, buying a pet should never be done spur of the moment, no matter how cute they are! Too many pets end up in shelters and homeless because their owners decide they can’t/won’t take care of them!
Leave a Comment