Don’t Give Kids a Puppy for Christmas
Many families look forward to exchanging gifts on Christmas morning with the holidays fast approaching. While giving children a cute little puppy as a gift may seem harmless, many pet care experts warn against it. Unlike other gifts that can be returned if a bad fit, an animal is a living being and can’t simply be returned or exchanged.
Christmas Time is Hectic
Christmas is already a hectic day as is. From having family over to opening presents and cooking, Christmas is not the time to introduce a puppy into your home. Adding a new family during the busiest time of the year can be stressful for some families.
The more significant issue with Christmas time is that good dogs are not usually available for holiday gift-giving. Responsible dog breeders don’t like the idea of giving pets as gifts. The ones that are available during that time are the ones you probably don’t want. They are the ones you see in malls and pet stores. Although cute, most are inbred, prone to genetic health issues, poorly socialized, and have behavioral problems like chewing and compulsive barking.
It Can Be Stressful for the Puppy
Throwing a new puppy into a strange environment can really stress them out. The place smells different and is unfamiliar. Kids can scream, get emotional, or grab at the dog, which could be frightening for the new pup.
Puppies are not toys. They are new members of the family that require constant love and attention. They need food, toys, beds, and supplies. They also need space and time to acclimate to their new home and surroundings.
Dogs Are a Long-Term Commitment
Most dogs can live for up to 15 years on average. Don’t give them a pet unless you know someone is ready for this kind of long-term commitment and willing to train and adequately care for a new dog.
Improper training or care can lead to behavioral problems, leading to even bigger issues. Many pets end up in shelters or are euthanized for behavior issues that could have been avoided with proper training and care.
Children Can Be Unreliable
Kids can be unreliable when it comes to taking care of a new pet. The puppy will melt their hearts for several days or weeks after Christmas. However, puppies don’t stay tiny and fluffy forever; reality will soon replace the Christmas fantasy. The oohing and aahing will move on to texting their friends.
Children who receive puppies as Christmas gifts don’t fully understand the responsibility that comes with it. A new dog can change a household considerably. Someone has to be responsible for their daily needs, such as feeding, health care, exercise, and grooming. This responsibility will fall on the parents.
Watch YouTube Video: A Puppy as a Surprise Christmas Present! Is it Ever a Good Idea? This Pets Health YouTube channel video explains what you need to know before giving a puppy for Christmas.
Wait Until After the Holidays
If you believe you are prepared for the responsibilities of a new pet, consider waiting until after Christmas. Instead of putting a puppy in a box, put a collar or a leash under the Christmas tree and explain to them what this gift means. Let them know they can help pick a new family pet after the holidays. The kids will be more invested in caring for a pet.
Plan a Family Trip to the Animal Shelter
Don’t buy the cute puppy at the pet store this Christmas season because you think the kids will love it. If you want to expand your family, try adopting from an animal shelter instead. After the holidays have ended, pick a day to look at puppies as a family. If you make the adoption a family event, you will choose a pet that fits perfectly in your household. This will allow you to ease your new family member into your home in a relaxing and calm way.
Watch the YouTube video: How to Choose a Shelter Dog. The video below explains how you can choose the perfect shelter dog for your family.
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