It’s called the silly season for a reason, however it doesn't mean you have to be silly when deciding on a pet as a gift.
With animal numbers spiking in shelters and advertised online in the months following Christmas, Needy Paws representative Ken Rebetzke says research and consent from the person receiving them are a must.
“A lot of animals given as gifts for Christmas end up in pounds, or you’ll see them advertised on Buy, Swap and Sell sites, or we get phone calls to take them,” Mr Rebetzke says.
Mr Rebetzke said the number of abandoned pets usually increases between February and March as the novelty of a new puppy or kitten wears off.
He says to be mindful you will probably have the animal for about 12 to 16 years, so they become a part of your life and not just a toy.
Adopting a new animal is the way to go, “because you know you are not supporting puppy farms, a lot of pet shops get their dogs from puppy farms which are just hideous breeding institutions.”
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“If you are taking a rescue dog, you are actually saving two lives – you are saving the dog you take, and saving the next dog the carers will take care of.”
You will also have a much better chance at knowing what your animal will be like when you take it home.
“Adoptive dogs are cared for by families, so they know their personality well and will be honest with you about what the dog is like.”
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