The Case Against Giving Pets as Holiday Presents

The world would be a better place if every stray had a home. And one might argue that giving pets as holiday presents is the perfect way to achieve just that.

But the unfortunate truth is that too many puppies and kittens that were given as Christmas gifts share the same fate: ending up in a shelter. That's because becoming a pet parent should never be a surprise. Adding a new family member needs to be planned for!

Slate explains:

The arrival of a dog changes a household considerably—for years. Someone has to take responsibility for their daily needs—feeding, exercise, health care, grooming. The decision should be thought about, talked about, negotiated. A new dog, not necessarily a puppy, either, should be the result of a process, not an impulse.

That's not to say you shouldn't purchase or adopt a pet during the holiday season. Families that have carefully considered the pros and cons of bringing a four-legged friend home should certainly do so -- this December or any time of year. Just beware of puppy mills and bogus breeders!

For more tips on pet care, connect with Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.