Animal welfare experts are issuing strong warnings against gifting pets during the Christmas season, emphasizing the potential stress and responsibility that come with pet ownership. Pets are a popular Christmas gift, especially for children, but animal welfare advocates strongly advise against this practice due to the heightened excitement during the holidays.
Sadly, many animals given as Christmas gifts are later abandoned in overcrowded shelters, a situation worsened by the pandemic. Some larger animal shelters have attempted to combat post-holiday pet abandonment by not adopting out pets during the pre-Christmas season, which has shown positive effects.
Pet expert Perdita Lübbe-Scheuermann emphasizes that the responsibility and effort involved in giving a pet as a gift are often underestimated. She recommends that anyone considering getting a pet make a list of the advantages and the “side effects” and answer all questions honestly, as reported by the Frankfurter Allgemeine. Because of this, Lübbe-Scheuermann is fundamentally against giving animals as gifts. She advises that if the concerns outweigh the advantages, one should decide against getting the pet.
Additionally, finances, time, and space must be considered when acquiring a pet. Potential owners should consider the financial aspects that come with keeping a pet and adapt to the needs. Pet owners are often surprised by the high costs of pet ownership. In addition to food and regular veterinary visits for vaccinations or routine check-ups, veterinary bills can become a high cost factor if the pet becomes seriously ill.
Many children wish for a pet, but they are often unaware that pet ownership comes with significant responsibilities, including ongoing costs such as food and veterinary visits. After the holidays, some new pet owners quickly realize that the once-desired pet brings work that can be perceived as annoying, leading to the pet quickly ending up in the animal shelter.
Animal experts also advise against buying pets online. While the internet is an important source of information, many sellers advertise their animals there, but animal experts generally advise against buying pets online. According to Lübbe-Scheuermann, “No reputable breeder would sell their animals directly over the internet.” She advises potential buyers to ask breeders or sellers many questions and observe how they handle the animal and how the animal behaves towards them.
Instead, experts suggest that if the desire for a pet still exists after Christmas and after careful consideration, the local animal shelter is the right place to go. It is best to get to know the pet personally beforehand. A conscious decision and preparation help ensure that the adoption of a new family member becomes a rewarding experience, including careful consideration of which animal suits the buyer and where to purchase it.
Giving a voucher for an animal instead of the animal itself can be a better alternative under the Christmas tree. This way, the giver and the recipient can later search together for the right companion, as noted by the Frankfurter Allgemeine. As Lübbe-Scheuermann says, “You have to choose your own animal. And not by looks, but you have to feel if it fits.”
