TEMPLE, Texas — From a furry friend to a chirping bird, pets can serve as great companions or simply a special friend for a loved one. But before you make the big purchase, Brooke Farrell with the Humane Society of Central Texas explained how it's important to consider who you're buying or adopting them for and if they are ready for the long-term responsibility.
"Unfortunately, even a few days after Christmas, we start seeing those return start coming through and it's so unfortunate," Farrell said.
Farrell went on to say when people get pets they don't actually want as a gift; it makes the pets re-adoption even more difficult and is extremely traumatic.
"Having a good animal in your homes for years and then surrendering it to the shelter could be so traumatic for that animal," Farrell added. "It really decreases the ability for us to be able to find a new home due to the emotional experience that animal has."
Also, if someone decides to keep that furry friend after the holidays, they could be forced to be put into a financial commitment when they're not ready.
So before giving someone a pet as a gift, it's important to make sure it's something you're sure the person wants, Farrell said.
For kids, think about a stuffed animal for a gift instead. For adults, an alternative is making the home temporary for pets through fostering to ensure it's the right fit for the owner and the pet. When doing this, there's always an option to give it back to the shelter.
PETA offers a list of what you should think about before making that pet purchases:
- If the pet is for a child, purchase a stuffed animal instead
- Get a better understanding of what the person is interest in
- Be sure the person can handle a pet financially long term