Giving a pet as a present: is it a good or a bad idea?

Thinking of giving a pet as a present to a loved one? It's not a decision you should be making on a whim. Welcoming a new pet into the family home is not always a pleasant experience for someone who is not ready for it.

Each of us has specific needs, constraints and lifestyles. It is therefore preferable to be able to choose which pet will share one's life. It's key to this long-term commitment going as smoothly as possible.

So, although you probably have the best intentions in the world and know very well the person to whom it's dedicated, gifting a pet at Christmas can turn out to be a bad idea.

Pets are not objects

We all agree that there's nothing cuter than a puppy or a kitten! But, once the novelty passes and the little animal grows up, they often end up being abandoned. In most cases, it occurs in the first few years of the animal’s life.

The period following moving season and the holidays are both times when shelters swell with abandoned pets. The reason? It’s simple: the homeowner was not prepared to take on the responsibility of adopting a pet. Obviously, it’s a long-term commitment with plenty of responsibility involved.

Also read : Responsible adoption: what you need to know

Things to consider

You believe that your dear grandmother needs company and that a lovely kitten would make her happy? Her day-to-day life and habits would be turned upside down. There are several things to consider before adopting an animal.

• Fur, feathers, or scales:

  some people prefer an animal they can cuddle, others simply want a presence they can interact with.

• Life expectancy:

• Hamsters: 2-3 years
• Dogs: 10-15 years
• Cats: 15-20 years
• Parrots: 50+ years!

• Availability:

  walking the dog, emptying the cat's litter box, cleaning the rabbit's cage... caring for an animal takes time.

• Ability to care for the pet:

  some pets have specific needs that are more time-consuming than others.

• Space:

  apartment or house? Enclosed garden? Nearby parks?

• Budget:

  routine veterinarian care; costs associated with illness or accidents; accessories, food, etc.

• Lifestyle:

  sedentary, active, or very active? Choose the right pet for the right lifestyle.

• Caretaker:

  may be necessary depending on vacation and schedules.

These are just some of the things to think through, and only the person concerned can assess whether they are able to fulfil these obligations.. That's why adopting a cat or dog is not a decision you can push on a close friend or family member.

Giving your child a pet as a gift

Think twice if your child asks for a pet as a Christmas present. Living with an animal is wonderful and rewarding on many levels. However, children are constantly developing new interests and can quickly lose interest in their furry companion.

If you want to give a pet as a gift, you should be sure of your decision and fully commit to it, as it is possible that you will inherit this responsibility over time.

Consider adopting from a shelter!

Animals are sentient beings. They suffer when they are in homes that are not suited to their needs.

Rather than giving an animal as a gift, why don't you visit the shelters and SPCAs accompanied by your loved one? They will be able to monitor the pet's behaviour and feel the unique bond that forms during this first meeting. They'll also be able to decide when is the right time to welcome the animal into their home. Don't forget: an adoption contract must be signed by the adopter.

You can then provide the accessories, treats and toys they need to welcome their new furry friend into their new home. It's the wisest thing to do.

Giving an abandoned pet a second chance is the ultimate gift!

Also read: 5 ways to help animal shelters

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