Pets as Christmas presents not always a good idea: B.C. SPCA

THOMPSON-OKANAGAN – The B.C. SPCA is reminding people ahead of Christmas that although pets may seem like a good gift, it's not always the case.

It’s important to make sure the person receiving the gift is ready for, and wants, the pet you want to give them, according to a B.C. SPCA media release.

Spokesperson Kim Monteith says in the release it's important to make sure the person has time for the animal and it is a suitable breed and age.

“It is a big commitment — one that could be 15 to 20 years — so we want to make sure people are ready for a pet and want the pet they’re given," she says.

Monteith also says an older pet with a lower activity level may be better suited to someone than a very active puppy or kitten.

She suggests consulting with the person you'd like to buy the pet for and visiting local rescue shelters with them to look at adoptable animals. She says a gift certificate for the SPCA branch or shelter could help with the costs of adopting animals and the necessary supplies.

The B.C. SPCA says it used to recommend people not give pets as presents at all, fearing unwanted animals would end up back in a shelter, but research now shows that when pets are given as gifts they tend to stay in the home.

“Of course we want people to adopt animals," Monteith says. "Our main concern, as it is with every adoption, is to ensure we find the right match, for both the animal and his human companion(s)."

“Every animal has a unique personality, just like humans do, and it’s so crucial to find one who matches your lifestyle, needs and expectations.”

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