Giving a Pet for Christmas

Written and verified by the lawyer Francisco María García

Last update: 24 December, 2021

Christmas is coming and it’s time to choose the ideal gift to surprise our loved ones. As the idea of giving a pet for Christmas seems a lovely one, many people go for this option, and possibly without weighing up the pros and cons too well. So, in this article, we’ll be asking whether it’s right to give a pet for Christmas.

A pet for Christmas: a perfect or a dangerous combination?

It is not just an assumption to say that many people choose to give an animal for Christmas. Market figures show that sales of companion animals multiply at this time of year. We are not talking only about cats and dogs, but about hamsters, domestic birds, rabbits, turtles, ferrets, etc.

If we think about it, it is not difficult to understand the reason why so many people choose to give a pet as a gift. Those who have had the opportunity to share their life with an animal, know that they can be the most loyal companions on this planet, with whom we share unforgettable moments.

In addition, the benefits of living with a companion animal are proven, especially for children. This relationship helps them develop their cognitive, physical, emotional, and social abilities, as well as teaching them essential values and emotions, such as friendship, loyalty, persistence, and teamwork.

All this sounds very beautiful and makes it seem that the gift of an animal at Christmas is beneficial. But the problem arises when people do not understand that this is not a common or disposable gift, but a living being that requires time, attention, affection and dedication.

Is the gift of a pet at Christmas a good idea?

First of all, we must understand the difference between a gift and a disposable item. A gift is everything that we give or dedicate to another person, to please them, recognize them, and express our affection.

A gift doesn’t have to be an object or something disposable. For many people, for example, experiences and travel are the best gifts.

Of course, giving an animal to a person or family shouldn’t mean that we treat a life as a commodity or an object. For this reason, we must make sure that the person wants, and is capable of, offering a dignified life to this animal, especially if we’re talking about giving a child their first pet.

If these aspects aren’t considered, then this animal could end up abandoned or mistreated due to its owners’ irresponsibility or lack of care. In addition to producing enormous suffering for the animal, abandonment contributes to an increase in street overcrowding and the proliferation of numerous diseases.

What to consider before giving a pet for Christmas?

To work out whether giving a pet for Christmas is the right option for you, you need to ask yourself whether the families or people are prepared to receive it. In other words, you need to guarantee that those who are going to receive the animal have the conditions to raise it, maintain it, and offer it a dignified life.

If the person we want to give the pet to prepared physically, financially and psychologically to raise an animal, then we can fulfill their dream by bringing a loving companion into their life. But if this isn’t the case, then the decision to give an animal as a present can cause sadness and pain for both parties.

If we’re thinking about giving a pet to a child, it’s essential to consider whether the family has the desire and the conditions to add a new member to their home. Parents must be fully aware that an animal requires a lot of care, their own space and time, as well as the financial considerations.

Adopt, don’t buy!

If you’ve decided to give your child or loved ones a pet, then you should go to a rescue centers or animal protection centers. In these areas, you’ll find many animals that are waiting to get a family and a decent home.

In addition, you’ll meet professionals and volunteers who have worked hard to rescue, care for and train these animals. With them, you can clarify your questions and learn more about the history, care, needs and preferences of the animal we are adopting.

Remember that adopting is an act of love and all animals, regardless of breed, color, sex or age, are prepared to give and receive love. So, this Christmas, adopt, don’t buy.