Some people think it’s a wonderful idea to surprise a friend or relative with an adorable puppy or kitten as a gift. In reality, an animal is probably the most thoughtless present they can give. Modern veterinary care and suburban lifestyles mean the average companion animal will live 12-15 years or more, which means 12-15 years of not just licenses and veterinary care but also supplies such as food, collars, leashes, litter boxes, etc. A friend or relative may not be ready to accept that kind of commitment. A “gift” pet should always be discussed with the prospective owner first.
Even when a friend or relative is ready for a pet, holiday excitement amid new surroundings may terrify a new dog or cat. A better gift at Christmas or Hanukkah is a book about the animal or on animal care. After the holidays, when it’s quieter, is a much better time to give the actual animal. The cat or dog will then receive all the calm, loving attention he or she needs. (Kittens and puppies are rarely available at Christmas, as their breeding season usually runs from early spring to fall.)
Adopt an animal from a shelter rather than purchase one at a pet store. Because of mass breeding techniques, pet store animals often suffer diseases not apparent at time of purchase. Shelter animals have often had all their shots (except rabies), and many are usually already spayed or neutered. Also consider the benefits of adopting an adult animal, who may already be housebroken or used to a litter box, and be at least partially trained. Remember, adopting a shelter animal means saving a life!
Another wonderful gift for an animal lover is to make a donation to a local shelter in his or her name. Most facilities offer thoughtful acknowledgments that will mean a great deal to your friend. After all, animals don’t know about holidays, people do. For the animal “who has everything,” helping other animals may be “just the thing.”
A child under 7 years of age should not receive as presents any baby animals (chicks, ducks, rabbits, young kittens, etc.). These baby animals may not survive Christmas morning when children, too young to know better, squeeze the life from them. And in families where young children may know how to treat baby animals properly, can the same be said of their friends from school? A stuffed toy animal is cuddly, cute, never needs feeding or veterinary care, doesn’t carry disease, and adapts well to periods of indifference.
When you do get that pet make sure you are feeding them the best that you can. It is important to look past attractive labels and clever marketing ploys when deciding which dog food to provide your precious pet.
I recommend that you choose a brand of pet food that is free of chemical preservatives and colors, with consistent ingredients and one that has NEVER been recalled.Look here for Healthy Pet Food.
To You and Your Pets Health,
Alice
