LORT Smith Animal Hospital is urging Christmas shoppers to avoid choosing puppies and kittens as surprise gifts this holiday season.
“The final shopping rush for Christmas gifts can sometimes lead to choices that haven’t been considered carefully and without planning for the long term,” said Lort Smith spokesperson Suzana Talevski.
“Pets should only be given to people who have expressed serious interest and are fully prepared for adoption. Even then, it’s best if they’re part of the selection process, as the individual animal might otherwise not be a good match for their personality or lifestyle.
“Although the hope is that every animal is in a loving home for Christmas, it should be for life not just for the holidays.”
Ms Talevski said pets should not be treated like something that can be exchanged a few days or a few weeks later.
“Pets are family, not toys that can be returned if we don’t like the colour or style.”
Sadly Lort Smith Animal Hospital is expecting a high number of pets to arrive at our shelters over the Christmas season with the majority of them surrenders.
“Unfortunately, the initial thrill of the surprise is short; the realities of responsible pet ownership continue for many years.”
Case study: At just 12 weeks old Molly was full of puppy curiosity, Molly was just discovering how exciting the world can be, eager to share every new adventure with her family.
Unfortunately, Molly soon found herself at our Campbellfield Adoption Centre after being declared an “unwanted gift”.
Molly did end up finding her forever family, unfortunately as the holiday season approaches and Christmas shopping lists are made, we are concerned we will see many more sad stories like Molly’s.
While a puppy can and should be a joyous addition, they need to be planned for and never a surprise. Everyone and every animal deserves to feel loved and wanted.
We are hoping Molly’s little face will inspire everyone to carefully research their adoption options before visiting a shelter.
