“I want a puppy” is probably one of the most heard phrases as the Christmas holidays approach. It is true that a dog can be an incomparable gift, since it means giving company and selfless love, but it is not a decision to be taken lightly. A dog (or any other animal, even the tiniest ones) is not a gift that comes with a receipt so you can exchange it for something else if you do not like it and, even so, according to studies by the Foundation for the Advice and Action in Defence of Animals, up to 40% of the animals given as gifts at Christmas are returned or abandoned within a few months. To avoid these kinds of terrible situations, it is important that the decision is not made impulsively. You have to bear in mind that you are going to add another member to the family, which is why it is essential that it is something thought through and agreed with the person who is going to receive the gift, or with the adult who is going to take responsibility for the animal if the recipient is a child.
What things should you know before deciding to bring a dog home?
Financial costs
A dog is a living being and has a series of needs you must cover. It is essential to make sure that the person who is going to receive it will be able to meet the veterinary expenses (check-ups, vaccinations, periodic deworming and possible illnesses), proper food, hygiene products and toys. There is also the possibility that you may need help from a professional ethologist to train it.
Time and dedication
Your dog will need you to dedicate part of your time to them. A couple of quick outings to relieve themselves are not enough. They need you to go on enriching walks, to play together, to give them cuddles and to teach them new things often. In addition, you will have to attend to their hygiene and keep an eye on their health. Ask whoever is going to receive the gift whether they are willing to do all this every day for the coming years of the dog’s life.
A few more things to bear in mind…
Think for a moment about your holidays: are you going to take it with you or do you have somewhere trustworthy where it can stay safe and comfortable? And, finally, do not forget to consider the safety of the whole family. It is important to fit it with a microchip, so they can locate you if at some point it gets lost. Also, depending on the breed and the place where you live, it may be compulsory to take out civil liability insurance. In addition, there are currently veterinary insurance policies that may be of interest to you.
A triple gift
And now that you have made up your mind, one last thing: although the person who is going to receive the gift may dream of a specific breed, it is important that you consider the option of adopting, since in shelters and pounds there are many animals waiting for a chance. This way, the gift will be triple: the person will receive it, the adopted dog, and the dog that can get into the shelter because a space has freed up.
