Tips from the SPCA for buying pets as gifts
Posted December 19, 2009 11:26 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Many parents have images of seeing their child’s eyes light up on Christmas when they get a puppy or kitten. However, it’s not always a good idea to surprise your loved one with an animal companion.
Ivanna Ferris, with the Chilliwack SPCA, says instead families should spend time with a potential pet before adopting or purchasing it, in case things don’t work out. Take you child into the shelter so they can cuddle and spend time with the animal to make sure the connection is there. She adds that the receiver may not be prepared for the responsibility of having that pet.
If your heart is set on making your child’s pet dreams come true, there are other options. Ferris says if you still want to surprise someone with a pet, a better idea is a gift certificate. She points out that you can buy them some of the supplies to look after the pet and suggest that when everything is ready, you will go to the SPCA and pick out the right pet for the family.
