During the holiday season, many people ? especially children ? would love nothing more than to receive the gift of a new pet. While it?s a gift that will almost guarantee delight, it is important to be aware of the animal?s needs as well. To avoid causing heartache for the new owner and animal alike, here are four things to consider before giving pets as gifts:
1. Lifespans and Commitment
Many people rush out to buy pets as holiday gifts because they believe they?re sure to be a big hit. However, people may not always do the research into how long the animals will live. And, while new animals may be exciting at first, they are not for everyone.
Before choosing a pet, you need to decide if the new owner will be committed to taking care of the pet for his entire life. While small pets like hamsters may live for only two years, cats and dogs can live up to 20 years. It is essential that you speak to the person beforehand to see if she is truly dedicated to taking care of a new pet for his entire lifespan.
2. Health
Before bringing a new pet home, you should have the animal checked by a veterinarian. By ensuring that the animal is healthy, you will be able to avoid giving an animal that may cost the new owner a lot in vet bills. You should also check with the new owner about potential allergies to the pet you are planning to give.
3. Total Cost
Depending on the kind of pet you choose, you will also need to be prepared to buy the basics for the pet, and this can be costly. For example, even though you may be able to get a new kitten for free, you will need to consider the cost for the dishes, litter boxes, scratching posts and food. After all, it would be unfair to have the new owner buy all the necessities, and especially if you have not discussed the appearance of a new pet beforehand.
4. Stress Levels
Before giving pets as gifts, it is important to realize that the holidays are very stressful for new additions to the family. Because of the festivities, new animals may be even more stressed than normal while trying to adapt to their new surroundings. To reduce the stress, many people do not recommend giving certain pets, such as cats, dogs and birds, as gifts during the holidays. Instead, it may be better to wait until a time when the owner will be able to give the pet the undivided attention he deserves.
Receiving a new pet is always a cause for joyous celebration because of the love and devotion the pet offers. However, it is crucial to keep these tips in mind before giving pets as gifts to make sure everyone is happy for a long, long time.
Source: http://petspot.aaa.com/pet-news/4-things-to-consider-before-giving-pets-as-holiday-gifts/
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