The “wow” factor of having a wiggly, furry puppy wrapped in a bright red bow is very real and very exciting on Christmas morning. It is fun to be the one to hug and pet and even walk and feed for the first day or so. But then the routine sets in and often becomes a chore rather than a joy. Consider that fact before deciding up on a puppy—or any pet this Christmas season.
A most popular gift—a puppy to join the family—brings a change to the household that should be planned out far beyond the thought of Christmas morning. Dogs (and cats or fish or hamsters) require time, patience and dedication to care for. They require a lifestyle change.
Puppies and kittens are the more popular Christmas pet to put under tree. But planning for the pet is key to ensuring that it doesn’t end up in a shelter.
One should note that new pets are not inexpensive. They require veterinary visits regularly, with annual shots, de-worming and other necessary preventive care. And most times, unless one pays extra for it, there is not insurance to cover the costs.
And animals love to eat! And they need a healthy, constant diet which adds to grocery bill each week.
Add in the cost of training the puppy and the potential of hiring someone to pet sit during family vacations or trips away and the financial burden can become more than initially thought.
But, if the time is ripe for adding another member to the family, Christmas can definitely be the most opportune time to do so.
Be prepared for the changes in schedule and be ready for the commitment of taking care of another living thing—one that totally relies on you for food, exercise and good health. And more importantly, for companionship and for love. In return, you will receive the same.
Puppies and kittens are ideal as they are young and can adapt more easily to a new home and new training; however, there are many more mature animals who could also use a home. Before selecting a final choice, visit local shelters to see if there is the perfect animal for your family that needs a home.
The Animal Welfare Society of Jefferson County, located at 23 Poor Farm Road, Kearneysville; the Berkeley County Humane Society, 554 Charles Town Road, Martinsburg and Briggs Animal Adoption Center at 3731 Berryville Pike in Charles Town all offer animal adoption of furry friends in need of homes. Plan ahead and visit them who needs a home and whether yours is the best fit.