If you're thinking of last-minute Christmas gifts for the kiddos, maybe skip the pet idea.

Kim Hessel, Owner of Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue says it's usually not a great idea to gift an animal, as so many get returned to shelter.

"This time of year we always get those calls from people who want to surprise their kids with Christmas animals as presents and we don't obviously recommend that."

Hessel says she doesn't usually allow adoptions for this scenario as parents need to really know what kind of work they're in for.

"I typically ask folks to wait until the New Year, and then come as a family to choose a pet. That's my best advice to ease that spontaneity and make sure that you're not just in it for that one day and the beauty of the kid's faces, which I totally understand, but it does need to be a 10,15, or 20-year commitment in some cases."

Some ways to gift a pet without actually gifting a pet are wrapping pet supplies and storing them under the Christmas tree and then looking at dogs or cats online from your local rescues.

Hessel says oftentimes it's best to wait until things are slower in the household to add a new family member anyways.

"It's best to be smart and do your research, wait until things in the home are a little quieter after the holidays before bringing in a new pet."

Some things to consider before getting a new pet, are potential vet bills and food costs.

It's also wise to have an idea of how much time you can devote to your new pet before purchasing, as some breeds are a lot more work than others.

 

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