Five Tips for Giving Pets as Christmas Gifts

Mara Oakes
Giving pets as Christmas gifts is a great idea in the right circumstances. Pets as Christmas gifts require a lot of planning and consideration in comparison to other gifts. Here are five tips for giving pets as Christmas gifts.

The first thing you should consider when giving pets as gifts is whether the recipient is ready (and willing) for a new pet! For instance, giving a puppy or other high maintenance pets as Christmas gifts to young children isn't a good idea unless the parents or family are prepared to look after a pet. For this reason, many parents give pets as Christmas gifts because they know that they will be able to support the children in taking care of the pet. It's a good idea to discuss the idea with the recipient beforehand to see if he or she wants and is ready for a pet. This also allows them to prepare the pet's new home.

A second tip for giving pets as Christmas gifts involves choosing a suitable animal and breed for your friend or relative. For instance, a person who lives in an apartment is better suited to a small pet. A Saint Bernard is not the ideal choice! Also choose a breed of animal which is suited to the gift recipient's temperament. An active family might enjoy a playful dog whereas someone who likes a tidy apartment might prefer a goldfish.

Thirdly, remember that not all pets and people are good matches when giving pets as Christmas gifts. Be prepared with an alternative arrangement to provide good care for the pet in case the person isn't ready to become a new pet owner.

Giving pets as Christmas gifts also requires careful thought about how you will acquire the pet. Keep in mind that many pet shelters do not allow you to adopt a pet and then give it to someone else. Also, thoroughly research breeders and sellers to ensure that your pet has been raised in an ethical and safe way.

Finally, when giving pets as Christmas gifts you should remember that your first commitment is to the pet. Providing a safe home where the pet receives good care is the first priority. Giving pets as Christmas gifts is a good idea when you are certain that the recipient is ready and willing for a pet and will provide a happy, healthy home.

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  • Alyssa Murray5/30/2011

    Well written, but I respectfully disagree.. it is NEVER a good idea to choose a pet for someone else and then give it to them. This is a personal decision that must be made after research and self reflection.. Getting a pet is like adopting a kid, or choosing a mate. I do appreciate that you mentioned (more than once) that care should be taken in adopting pets. (Bunnies and chicks, in the same light, are also a bad idea to give kids on Easter.. unless the family is planning on keeping them.. too many people just rid of them when they grow up.)

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