With just a few days until Christmas, many are going down their lists to get those last-minute gifts-although those at local animal shelters, like Sherry Crolly, developmental director at Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, urge shoppers to not add live animals to their shopping carts, without proper research and preparation.
“Please don’t get an animal as a Christmas gift, especially if it’s for somebody else and they don’t know they’re getting an animal,” she said.
Crolly says gifting a pet can be exciting in the moment, but without proper preparation and foresight, many of these animals end up in already overcrowded shelters, like Griffin Pond.
“We see a high surrender rate after the holidays. Every shelter nationwide does. That has to do with people getting animals, especially puppies as Christmas gifts, and then the novelty wears off,” said Crolly.
She says when looking to get an animal for a loved one or family member, ensure it’s not a surprise.
The recipient of the animal must be able to be both financially and emotionally capable to care for the animal during its entire lifespan, which could be nearly two decades long, depending on the animal.
Those at local shelters also urge those looking for a pet to consider adopting, rather than purchasing from a store or breeder.