01/12/2024
While well-meaning people often consider giving pets as gifts—especially if they know the recipient is fond of animals or think it will teach them about compassion and responsibility—this is rarely a good idea.
Unlike material gifts, animals are living beings with mental, emotional, and physical needs. Owning a pet is a serious, lifelong commitment that requires the pet owner’s careful thought, research, preparation, and readiness—emotionally, mentally, and financially.
Too often is the case that pets given as gifts sadly end up neglected or abandoned once the initial excitement and novelty fade. Many are left tied up or in cages, ignored, or given away when they no longer seem cute or easy to care for. Others try to surrender them to shelters—who are already grappling with the difficulty of finding permanent homes for countless rescued animals—or, worse, just throw them out on the streets.
Please think thrice about giving animals as gifts this holiday season. They are not toys, but living beings who deserve the best care and full commitment. If you're offered a pet but know you are not prepared for its lifelong care, it's best to politely decline the gift. If you receive a pet but cannot keep it, both the giver and receiver should take responsibility for finding a loving, permanent home for the animal. Remember to spay or neuter pets before rehoming them to prevent unwanted litters and the continued cycle of "gifted" animals, which only worsens pet homelessness.
If you truly want to make a difference for animals this holiday season, please do consider adopting or fostering a pet in need, supporting your local shelter, or helping educate others about responsible pet ownership.
Let’s spread kindness this Christmas—not only to people, but to the animals who depend on our care and commitment for their entire lives. 🙏🏻
paws.org.ph
