A New Pet for Christmas

• Posted on 18 December 2017
• By Dr. Jill Tack
• Posted in holiday pet, new pet, new puppy, plan for a new pet
• 0

Those sweet little eyes, cuddly soft fur, and the cutest little paws! It's hard to resist the adorableness of a puppy or kitten and many a child's list has included requests for a new pet, but is the holiday season the right time to welcome a new member of the family?

Those sweet little eyes, cuddly soft fur, and the cutest little paws! It's hard to resist the adorableness of a puppy or kitten and many a child's list has included requests for a new pet, but is the holiday season the right time to welcome a new member of the family?

Busy, Busy, Busy

Adopting an animal is a serious commitment and deserves careful consideration as to whether the timing is right. Although many people see the break before the new year as a great time to get the chance to know a new pet and create a bond, it is also a hectic time of year. Adding a pet and all of the responsibilities that come with it may only add to the stress.

Surprise!

Surprises are wonderful, but never surprise a person with a pet. It is important to get the recipient’s OK and then have them find the right pet by letting them choose each other. The bond with a pet can start at the shelter, as sometimes that cute face just calls to you personally. Include other family members in selecting the animal and everyone will feel invested in this new responsibility.

Timing is Everything

All the commotion of holiday cheer can be over-stimulating — and sometimes terrifying — to an animal unfamiliar with its surroundings. If you plan to entertain or have house guests during the holidays, wait to bring the pet home until the holiday rush has passed. Waiting until you have more time to devote to your pet will make it easier to enjoy the new addition to your family.

What Can I Put Under the Tree?

If you want to share the excitement of getting a new pet with your loved ones but have decided to wait until the holidays pass, that doesn't mean you need to miss out on the surprise aspect of gift-giving a pet.

• Fill a big box with pet supplies and wrap it in paper and ribbons — you can even punch a few breathing holes in the side.
• Make a coupon that entitles the holder to the pet of choice from a local shelter.
• Give a stuffed animal with a note that it can be exchanged for the real thing after the holidays.

Remember, the commitment of a new pet is a lifelong one. When deciding on when to welcome a new pet into your family, look at what the holiday season holds for you and decide if it's the right time for you and your family. You can always rest assured that if you find the right fit, you can look forward to many holidays of fun together with your four-legged friend.