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| Mewdy Blue |
I must apologize up front if I don’t sound myself tonight; I
am on a “Hobbit high.” No, I don’t mean that stuff the Hobbitses smoke,
whatever it might be. No, I mean I wrote this in the dark in the theater today
while eagerly awaiting the start of the movie. Now, I’m so happy I’m floating already anticipating the
next time I see it – again!
Okay, here goes:
This time of year I usually reiterate my plea to not give
pets as gifts. This year I am amazed, however, that at least one local shelter
director is quoted as saying she disagrees with this philosophy!
Read this article in the Iowa State Daily to see the actual
quote:
I prefer the information in this post at Syracuse.com:
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| Billy - a Cymric |
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Instead of giving a surprise pet as a gift at Christmas or
any time here are some alternatives:
1. Gift
certificates: some shelters give gift certificates for this very purpose. Or
you can make up your own certificate promising a pet of the recipient’s
choosing. Never buy a pet from a pet store!
2. Pre-choose
a pet: offer the recipient the chance to pick out a pet themselves before
Christmas. Do your research, make sure the source is reputable and be clear
what all is included in the adoption fee (vaccinations, spay/neuter, worming,
pedigree, etc.?) Make plans to take the pet home after the holidays. The
holiday season is usually hectic enough without adding a new pet to the mix.
And moving into a new home is stressful enough for a pet without the frantic
pace, noise and introduction of strangers to cope with.
3. Give
a list: if you know what type of pet your recipient is considering do some
research on your own and present your findings to them. They will appreciate
your help. It will make their search that much easier.
Make sure that adding a pet is something your friend or
relative is ready to do before presenting them with a new puppy or kitten. Let
them do the choosing at the right time in order to ensure a rewarding and
lasting relationship between that person and their new pet.
