Children cry tears of joy after receiving a four-legged friend for Christmas
These children got emotional when they learned that the Christmas miracle was coming with a wagging tail.
america today
There may be nothing more adorable than watching a fluffy puppy or kitten jump around the corner to surprise its new owner.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Americans have a long tradition of giving gifts to their pets on occasions such as holidays and birthdays. But before gifting someone a pet, it’s important to consider the tremendous responsibility of lifelong care and other factors that come with responsible pet ownership.
“It’s a great feeling,” says Ashley Beard, M.D., co-owner of Sage Veterinary Center in Jersey City, N.J., of wanting to give someone a new pet. But making it a surprise isn’t the best idea.
“I always think that if you’re getting a[pet]with your partner or significant other, it’s a good idea to have the conversation, ‘Are you sure you’re ready to take on this responsibility?’ and make sure everyone’s in the same place,” she says.
The American Veterinary Medical Association similarly advises against surprising anyone with your pet, says President Michael Q. Bailey.
“After the joy of receiving this gift, are you or the recipient ready to provide this lifelong care?” he wrote in an email response to USA TODAY.
Pet prevention and veterinary care
In addition to ethical considerations, Bailey says practical preparations are also important, such as making sure the living environment is safe and intrusive for pets, seeking veterinary care, and making sure they have proper food, bedding, ID tags, and toys.
“These are not questions that you rush to answer after the fact,” he says.
And while it may be tempting to surprise your child with a gift, Beard says you should think twice.
“Especially if you’re giving your kids a pet, understand that as a parent you’ll probably be doing most of the caring for them,” she says. Children may be able to help with some tasks, but long-term ownership and the associated financial burden will definitely fall on the adults in the household. And it’s not a short-term relationship.
“If you’re buying a kitten, it might take 15 years,” Beard says of the average cat lifespan. Dogs’ lifespans vary by breed, she says, but they can easily live 10 to 12 years, and sometimes even longer for smaller dogs.
Also keep in mind that some breeds require frequent grooming, which can be expensive.
And there’s more to think about.
“When someone is looking to bring a pet into their life, consider whether a young pet or an adult animal would be a better fit. Consider time, cost, breed characteristics, energy levels, and the needs of other pets and children in the home,” says Bailey.
And whether you’re adopting a pet from a breeder, shelter, or shelter, consider the animal’s history and welfare first, he says. “Look for signs of health conditions and make sure the source is trustworthy and transparent.”
Beers points out that shelters are a great resource because they have access to dogs that are spayed/neutered and vaccinated, “relieving new owners of the initial costs associated with adopting a young dog,” she says.
If you approach the pet gifting process responsibly, the rewards can be great for everyone involved.
“Thoughtful planning and a shared commitment can help new pet owners build the foundation for a strong and lasting bond and lifelong love,” says Bailey.
