The holiday season is fast approaching. For some that might mean a new puppy or kitten as a gift. People may have the best intentions but a new family member really isn’t a “gift”. A wiggly bundle of joy seems like a delightful idea Christmas morning but it’s several years of commitment. There is a right way & a wrong way to do this.
First, be very sure your family is ready for a new member. If there are children involved are they old enough to understand bringing a dog or cat into your family is not like getting a new toy. Also, Christmas day is not the best time to introduce a new pet. It can be too busy, very loud & too stressful of a time to add another responsibility. It may prove overwhelming for both you & the new addition to your family.
The wrong way…Dad stops off at the mall & goes into the pet store. He picks out a puppy or kitten based on little or no information & brings it home. Surprise!
The right way…, A decorative note wrapped in holiday paper or small stuffed animal or pet supplies boxed & wrapped with a big bright bow can “announce” an impending addition to the family. After a discussion with the children about responsibility, the family together goes to a local shelter. They take their time, meet several dogs (or cats) & ask lots of questions. Hopefully a new member of the family will be going home with them when they leave.
It’s a sobering thought that almost every shelter is full. There are so many animals in need of a home. Pet stores generally are supplied by puppy mills. They are in this for profit. A family member shouldn’t be about money or a gift. It should be about love, commitment & responsibility.
Remember, when you adopt you enrich at least three lives. Yours, the animal you rescued, & the animal you just made room for. Give the gift of love, sponsor, foster, rescue & adopt.
CEO Olivia ❤
Knotty Toys for Good Dogs 