So many kids have Christmas pet stories. While it's always exciting getting a pet for Christmas, it's also one of the biggest reasons why pets end up in animal shelters!
There are so many things that families and humans need to consider before adopting a pet for Christmas, even if that is the only thing they think someone wants.
Pets require a lot of care.
This care will be harder to organize and manage after the holiday season is over and everyone has to go back to their busy lifestyles like work and school.
Let's take a look at 5 things to consider before getting a pet for Christmas.
Do You & the Recipient Have Time for a Pet
Pets require a lot of time, care, and handling.
If you are getting one for your own family, you need to look at whether or not you have the time.
If you want to get a pet for someone else, don't unless they have taken the time to consider it. They should also have stated that they can handle the responsibility-- never assume.
If the amount of time necessary to care for a pet is in question, determine if you are willing to make sacrifices in order to allow for time.
Can You Afford the Cost of a Pet
The costs of pet care are rising, like everything else that a family would consider owning.
Pets require food, medical care, training courses, and sometimes boarding and sitting fees.
It is important that you think about all the regular, and possible, costs that are associated with pet care before giving them as a pet for Christmas.
Can You Handle the Lifestyle Change
If you have never had a pet before, it is hard to understand how being a pet owner is a lifestyle.
Pets require regular exercise and entertainment, they need attention and for their families to be available to meet their needs.
Planning your days needs to include them and their schedules. You will also need to make arrangements for their care when you have to be away from home.
Are You Looking for a Puppy/Kitten or Adult
Adopting a pet for Christmas can involve adopting a pet when it is young or as an adult.
Many children are very specific about what they want, but what you adopt will need different care and attention depending on age and the kind of pet.
Puppies and kittens require a lot more work than adult pets would need.
Think about what children want and what you can provide for when making a choice.
You can also check out these tips for how to choose the perfect family pet.
Will Everyone in the Household Welcome the Addition
Other pets and all family members need to be considered before a new pet is added to the household. This is especially true when Christmas gifts are considered.
Most pets either get along great or don't get along at all. Every possible pet being added to a family should be introduced to other pets before a decision is made.
All the children and adults in the house also need to be comfortable with a new pet.
It is important that any fears or reservations be allowed to be worked through before a decision as big as this is made.
Sarah L says
My advice: do NOT give a pet for Christmas.
Nancy says
Your article has valuable information for people considering getting a new pet and deciding when they will add a furry member to their family.
Christy R. says
Good advice. Thanks for the article.
laurie damrose says
These are all basic things to do .
Amber Ludwig says
Yes! All such important things!! Too many pets being returned after the initial excitement wears off and that's so heartbreaking!
Kari B says
These are all great things to consider any time someone is thinking about getting a pet.
Molli Taylor says
thank you for this! people need to really think it through before getting their kids real live animals!
Debbie P says
More than the cuteness factor needs to be considered before buying a pet.
Dorothy Boucher says
Great information here and I do hope anyone who is looking for a new pet it being a dog or a cat takes these into consideration when looking.
@tisonlyme143
007blond says
so true!
Rachelle says
This is a great post that every family should read before adopting dogs, or any pet! Thank you for taking the time to research this and share your thoughts.
Rosie says
These are all good points. I would think that unless the people who will be responsible for the pet have really thought all these things through, it will easily end up in a shelter.
Peter G says
Other pets in the house should be considered. Even fish are a delight to make a mess of with a new puppy or kitten.
April monty says
These are truly sensible thing to think about before getting something like that requires such resposibility
Chelsi Smith says
Such a great article. Thank you for posting. Im going to bookmark this so i can share it.