MUSKEGON, Mich. — It’s a tradition in Hallmark movies to gift someone a pet—typically a puppy or kitten—as a present during the holidays.
While you may want to recreate that movie moment in real life, it’s important to remember that pets are a big responsibility. Surprising someone not ready can backfire because as most animal advocates will tell you, pets are not presents but a lifetime commitment.
There’s no sweeter surprise in the movies then seeing a cute puppy or kitten sitting under the tree on Christmas morning.
A vast majority of people keep their new furry friend in real life. A small percentage still end up in shelters.
“March and April, especially. So, we look at that, we're like, oh, look at the age of these dogs. Who could possibly be the Christmas gift. So, the younger puppies from the winter, and we get them in and they're just under that one year of age is very popular in the spring," said Lana Carson, Executive Director of Pound Buddies.
While local shelters hope folks will consider adoption, staff say they want families and individuals to be ready for responsibility.
"It's also very stressful for the pet to be brought home when, you know, it's probably an unsure environment, it’s probably busier, family coming in and out, traveling. Maybe get through everything and then if that desire is still there, come January, start your search, and look for a pet then," Carson said.
This comes at a time when many shelters are overwhelmed and over capacity.
“We have four litters in house right now. And we've had dozens of litters and again, that's unprecedented for what we've experienced over the past 10 to 15 years," Carson said.
Puppy behavior in particular can be challenging for some. They need training and patience. There’s also financial obligations to keep in mind that will persist throughout a pet’s life.
“Take your time. Do your research on the breed that you're looking at as well everything from grooming necessities to the energy expenditure to the mental stimulation that that dog needs rather than just the physical appearance of the dog," Carson said.
Shelters say pets are not toys that can be pushed aside after a few months—they are a part of the family.
If you realize the individual, child or family isn't ready for a 10- to 15-year commitment, they should consider fostering, or volunteering to walk dogs at the shelter.
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