Alternatives to a Live Pet Under the Christmas Tree

During the holiday season many people want to give pets as gifts, but the truth is while they make adorable gifts many children are not ready to handle becoming a pet owner and the responsibility falls onto the parent. It's never good to give children a pet as a gift prior to talking to them anyways because they may not understand the care that goes along with owning a pet Not to mention the holiday seasons are very hectic with many people running about. This can actually be very traumatic to a new pet. If you are set on getting a new pet as a gift, these alternatives will work better than putting the actual live animal under the tree.

1. Prepare a pet basket, filling it with tons of products related to the animal of their choice. This can prepare the person for their new pet without the stresses of having a new animal in the house over the holiday. Fill the basket with all the necessities one may need when getting a pet such as food bowls, food, treats, collar, leash, toys, etc. Then add things such as books on how to care for your new pet, tips and tricks on training your new pet and books about the breed of pet you are planning to get. These types of baskets let children know what will be expected of them when obtaining their new pet.

2. Gift certificates are another way to let your children know they are getting a pet without the traumatic experience over the holiday. Whether this be a gift certificate to a breeder, humane society or local pet store you can let the festivities die down prior to bringing your new pet home. This also helps the person receiving the pet to pick one based on the bond they have. Not to mention what some children think they want turns into something completely different once they get to interact with other types of breeds. This will provide the receiver with a perfect match instead of picking out an animal yourself.

3. If you're set on not getting a live animal or unable to do to living style buying a computerized fake pet may just be the ticket. The novelty may run out though and the receiver may still want a live pet but this alternative may work with some. There are certain types of "fake pets" that actually eat, go to the bathroom and thrive and learn on interaction. If you're looking as a teaching tool this may be a perfect way to teach children the involvement and dedication it takes to having a live pet in the home.

Prior to ever getting your children a pet its best to ask if they really want one and are prepared to give the pet a forever home and have the financial ability to properly care for their new pet. There are too many sad situations where animals end up neglected, forgotten or abandoned. Have your children who are receiving the pet talk with other pet owners to see the time and dedication it will take to properly caring for a pet. The lifelong commitment to owning a pet has its own rewards as your pet shows you its loyalty and love.