(US) Cute gifts now, problems later

Puppies seem like a sweet holiday gift but too often there are unforeseen issues that ruin the thought

The thought of waking up Christmas morning to an adorable puppy with a big red bow around its neck is heartwarming. However, what might seem like a perfect gift, may not be such a good idea in the long run.

The reality can be gut-wrenching, especially to those who end up returning the pet once they realize the amount of care required is more than the family can endure.

Many shelters discourage pet adoption during the holiday season. Instead of offering a pet as a gift, shelters prefer families to take that time to get educated on the adoption process.

"It certainly is a time of year to be a little more on guard, to be a little more careful," said Phil Snyder executive director at Suncoast Humane Society.

He said that he has seen his share of requests for bunnies at Easter, black cats at Halloween and Dalmations after the release of the movie "101 Dalmations."

Snyder said the holiday season can be a frustrating time for families, especially those who can't find that special toy for their child. They frantically call a shelter, hoping for a last-minute buy.

Impulse purchases are not the way to go when it comes to adopting a pet.

"Adopting a pet can be a rewarding time for a family," said Snyder. But they need to know there is a difference between just going in and slapping down a credit card and walking out with something, he said.

The adoption process begins with animal viewing and the selection. Everyone in the household must be involved in the decision-making process. Snyder said that giving pets as gifts are accepted, but the responsibility must be shared by the gift-giver.

Following the selection, an application is filled out to help make the best possible match.

"This allows to build a communication between the specialist and family," said Snyder.

Often, many shelters have a separate area to get acquainted.

The adoption process at EARS Animal Rescue Sanctuary differs from other shelters because there is no facility to house the animals. Instead, they stay in foster care until home studies are performed and the adoption process is finalized.

Prior to adoption, behavior assessments and medical examinations are completed. Pets are also spayed and neutered. Families are then educated on the socialization, training and the proper care giving techniques.

"We are trying to find out if you really thought this over and if you are prepared," Snyder said. "And for the most part, we will let you make that decision."

According to the Suncoast Humane Society, adoptions rates have been steady through the year. Dee Ann Roberts, executive director at the Animal Welfare League, said that the months of July and August are when adoption rates increase for them.

"Many of the kids are out of school at that time and that's when they decide to get a pet," Roberts said.

Whichever time of year families plan to adopt a pet, the decision is a lifelong commitment.

"That pet is always going to need your care. There is never going to be a time when that pet doesn't depend on you 100 percent for everything," said Roberts.

Unfortunately, she has seen the results of what can happen to unwanted animals.

The day after Christmas, she has seen boxes of puppies at the front door of the shelter.

"It happens every year," she said.

There are days -- even months -- following adoption, when owners realize that the responsibilities are too much to handle. It may be a financial issue, the lack of time to spend with the pet or not realizing how big the pet grows.

Debby Merkin, supervisor at DeSoto County Animal Services is familiar with misinformed purchasers when it comes to pet adoption.

"When they see that little Lab, he's so is cute, he's blond, his tail is wagging and his fur is so soft," she said. But six months from now, he is 65 pounds and he is weighing you down," Merkin said. "They don't stay cute little puppy forever --they grow up."

Adoption process:

* Visit shelter and select the animal
* Get pet acquainted with the family
* Application
* Interview
* Signing of agreement/ payment of adoption fee (includes spaying and neutering).

Reference: www.sun-herald.com

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