Before you give someone a pet for Christmas, animal advocates urge you to make sure the recipient is agreeable and understands the commitment. Jeff Dorson with the Louisiana Humane Society said in a few weeks they see many of these gifts dumped at shelters…
“Why because people are going back to work and they realize gee who’s going to care of the puppy or cat and it’s taking too much time and our daughter has lost interest, and maybe this wasn’t such a good idea,” said Dorson.
Instead of surprising someone with a new puppy or kitten, Dorson suggests considering fostering a pet from a shelter instead or even offering to pay for the adoption fee and let the recipient choose their pet at a shelter instead.
“Take your time when you’re considering adding a four-legged creature, because the time, the expense, just factor everything in,” said Dorson.
So, before you put a pet under the tree Dorson said remember the long-term commitment associated with a pet.
“At the same time animals bring enormous joy and love into your life so if you’re ready for that, for 15 years, please go forward, and if you’re not step back and let others do it,” said Dorson.
Another gift idea would be to make a donation to the Louisiana Humane Society or a local animal shelter in someone’s name.
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