Give a Pet as a Christmas Gift

Should You Adopt a Pet for a Christmas Gift?

Pets can make wonderful Christmas gifts if that pet is wanted. Never give a pet as a gift unless you have permission from the receiver. Not everyone may feel the same way because someone has to take responsibility for giving care to the pet for a very long time. Consider the lifestyle of the person who will be receiving this pet as a gift. The receiver's ability to care for the pet, where they live, and the cost of caring for the pet is very important to plan for ahead of time. You should also consider grooming, vet, and boarding fees for the pet's lifetime.

Adult Dogs and Cats- Puppies and Kittens

When considering dogs or cats as pets say "No" to pet shops and puppy mills that sell these animals, and adopt from your nearest animal shelter or pound. The Pet Smart in our area works with the local adoption facilities in surrounding counties in obtaining dogs and cats for pets. In my area they are offering an online printable coupon for ½ off for cats to be sterilized upon adoption. You can also find them in your telephone book or check online to find information on adoption in your area. Some of them even have pictures of pets available for view on there websites and usually will give their fees and procedures for adoption. I have even seen ads in our local newspapers of pets available for adoption.

I adopted my dog (Raven) from The Montgomery County Animal Shelter in Christiansburg, Virginia when he was 8 weeks old. I had to wait for 10 days before bringing him home because being new to the shelter he had to stay under quarantine for several days. That was five years ago and he is very much loved and very spoiled. He has never used bathroom in the house and was very easily trained. He can do tricks and is very well behaved. He is a mixed breed but that is not important when choosing a pet. The most important thing is giving a pet a good home instead of letting them be killed. If you prefer full bred you can find them at shelters also.