The Holiday season is here and everyone is getting ready to spend time with their loved ones. Some are still finishing last minute gift shopping, and, while there are many Christmas gift options, many are tempted to give a cute pet as a Christmas gift.

According to Hellen Woodward Animal Center, pets are being adopted during holidays more than at any other time of the year. One of the animal societies came up with a promotion called “Homes for the Holidays”; they have volunteers dressed as Elves and Santa’s who deliver pets for Christmas. While this sounds like a very endearing idea and many think that giving a pet as a surprise is a wonderful gift, there are couple things to keep in mind.

First and foremost, make sure you know that a pet is wanted; not everyone wants a pet or has time or money to take care of them. If you are getting a pet for your kids or someone who wants a pet, figure out in advance what type, size and breed your child or family member wants.  Also, make sure your house is ready and you have all the needed supplies such as food, bed, leash, and carrier.

If you still want it to be a surprise, but not sure what breed they want,  you can get a shelter gift certificate or pet promise certificate, that way they can choose the pet they want and that best fits their lifestyle. This would be the best way to ensure that no pets are affected.

This is not meant to keep you from buying such a special gift, but to make you aware of the drawbacks you may encounter.

Happy Holidays!

Flickr Creative Commons: starsandspirals. All photos used under this license.