Considering a puppy for Christmas?

The Companion Animal Protection Society Explains Why the Holiday Gift of a Pet is actually no Gift at All:
A puppy under the tree with a big red bow around its neck seems like the perfect image for many families; but Deborah Howard, President of the Companion Animal Protection Society (The only national nonprofit dedicated exclusively to protecting companion animals) warns that this only adds to the problem of shelters being filled with unwanted dogs.

Before you buy a puppy, Deborah Howard has created the following checklist to see if you are ready for the new member of the Family:

• Did the companion animal you plan on bringing into your home come from a shelter, reputable breeder or from another location where you can trace its whereabouts?
• Have you prepped the entire family for the new member of the family?
• Who will be responsible for the dog’s socialization?
• Who will be accountable for the animals care? Feeding? Walking? House training?
• Have you calculated the cost of raising your animal? Vet bills? Food? Toys?

Many breeders and pet stores are often motivated by money and the holiday craze. Such sellers are not likely to cut into profits with pesky screening for genetic diseases, nor are they likely to care about the importance of socialization. These attitudes may cost you in the long run, both in dollars and in heartbreak. The most important rule of thumb is to realize that puppies are not toys. They are living creatures that need a lot of attention and essentially should be regarded as a new member of the family.

These are all very good things to consider if you are planning to bring a new furry friend home for the holidays. Please consider adoption, and think about bringing the animal home before the holiday rush so it can get used to living in your home before the stress and craziness of the holidays ensue.