Thinking of giving a pet to a loved one as a holiday gift? Best Friends Animal Society is all for it, but we want to help you make the right choices along the way to ensure a successful match. Here’s what you should think about in advance.
First, does your giftee actually want a pet?
If you’re not sure whether the gift of a pet will be appreciated, talk with your intended giftee in advance about it. Take them through some of the questions and scenarios below to be sure it’s a gift that makes sense for them.
What kind of pet works best for your giftee?
If you’re thinking of giving Grandma a dog, be sure to factor Grandma’s lifestyle into the decision. If Grandma’s hobbies include knitting and watching rom-coms, consider gifting her with an older pet, one who is less energetic and happy to curl up at her feet or snuggle beside her on the sofa. However, if Grandma’s a triathlete, consider a younger, more energetic dog who enjoys outdoor adventure and will gladly accompany her on her morning run.
Is the rest of the household down with it?
You’re excited to present a pair of kittens to your niece and nephew. Their parents, however, might be less enthusiastic. So be sure to check in with the fam before you take the plunge. Are they a busy, active family who spends weekends out of town? If so, consider a cat over a dog, as cats can manage being home alone for a day or two while dogs will need someone to care for them. Are there children in the household? Very young children will need to be taught how to handle a pet gently and safely. Who will be responsible for feeding and primary care of the pet? Is there a fenced yard at the home, or will someone need to walk the new puppy? Does their apartment complex or landlord permit pets? Are any roommates on board with it? If there are lots of unknowns to the answers above, it might be best to forego gifting a pet until it’s more convenient.
Is your giftee able to care for a pet?
It’s important to consider everything your giftee will need to do to care for this new pet — the time, costs, and activities involved. Your grandpa may love to have a cat, but remember that the costs of veterinary care, food, and litter can have an impact on Grandpa’s budget. He will also need to be able to physically manage caring for the cat and getting them to veterinary appointments.
Is your giftee prepared to take the pet home?
You’ve cleared the way to gift a pet. Hooray! Now, include the essentials that the pet will need for the first couple of days in their new home: food and bowls, a bed, some toys, and a leash and collar for a dog or litter box and litter for a cat. Nobody wants to go shopping for pet food on Christmas Day.
When should you rethink giving a pet as a surprise?
Getting a new pet is a big moment, and most people will want to be involved in the selection of that pet. Unless you are 100% sure of the type of pet your loved one wants, choose instead to give a gift certificate to a local shelter so your giftee can pick out their new best buddy.
Finally, please consider adopting a pet from one of your local shelters or rescue organizations, rather than purchasing a pet. There are wonderful, loving dogs and cats waiting in shelters for homes. By adopting, you are making a holiday wish come true for a deserving pet in a shelter.
To view adoptable pets from Best Friends as well as other shelters and rescue groups in Northwest Arkansas, click here.