Bringing a pet home for the holidays? Here's what you need to know.
The best holiday gifts are the ones your kids will never forget. If you’re thinking of giving the gift of companionship this year via a new pet in the family, make sure you do your research. Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Keep reading to find out everything you need to know to feel confident in bringing home a new fuzzy family member this holiday season.
Gift ideas for kids can be hard to nail down. Maybe the perfect present comes with four paws and a sweet little kitten face! Introducing children to animals can increase empathy and teach them how to take on more responsibility. Pets sure are unique Christmas gifts, but it’s important to consider a few factors before plopping a little puppy under the Christmas tree this year.
Do your New Year's resolutions include a well-trained pet?
Before you accuse me of being a holiday grinch, consider the long-term commitment of a pet. Dogs and cats can live up to 20 years! Are you equipped to look after a puppy not only in its infancy, but through to the end of its life? Will you be able to give a little baby animal the care and attention it needs for decades to come? These are the important questions to be asking yourself when considering a pet for the holidays. Wanting a pet and having the right lifestyle for one are two very different things!
It may be a Christmas wish...but is it the right time?
Baby animals need lots of attention right off the bat. The holidays are a good time to take a couple weeks out of your normally busy schedule to devote to housetraining, behavior classes, and establishing a healthy sleep routine for your new family member. The idea of curling up in front of the fire with a new pet in a cozy holiday sweater sure is appealing! However, if you can’t swing the extra time and dedication this year, it might be wise to wait until you have lots of time to spend with your cuddly new bestie!
Christmas gifts galore
If a new pet is the right gift under the tree this year, make sure you are also prepared with everything your new family member might need. If you are getting a puppy, make sure to also have ready a crate, leash, treats, food, bowls, and everything else you might need. Maybe these accessories are the right present for Santa to leave under the tree 😉 Regardless, make sure that your family is equipped with everything you might need to make the transition as easy as possible for your new fluffy friend.
Other ways to gift
Above all, a pet should always be a planned gift. It should be something you know your family is ready for and can handle. Your pet deserves lots of attention and care for years to come, and it’s important that you’re prepared to provide that. If it isn’t a good fit this year, never fear! You can still give a gift that sets you up for your new family pet down the road. Maybe you purchase a gift certificate from the local shelter to cover adoption fees, so you can pick out a pet all together that suits your needs.
You can also gift a letter to your kiddos, letting them know a pet will be joining the family in just a few short months. With that time before your new family member joins the fun, you can give the gift of research. Make sure your family understands the specific needs of the breed of pet you are getting. Training books can make a great addition under the tree and will make sure your family is as ready as possible for their new bestie.
Whether now is the time for a new bestie or not, we can’t wait to hear about the holiday cheer in your household. From our Terra family to yours, we are wishing you a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season. Make sure to tag us in your winter wonderland pics on Instagram and TikTok @TerrabyBattat.
