by Sharon Bishop-Baldwin
There’s nearly universal agreement among humans who have roles in caring for cats and dogs — veterinarians and rescue and shelter workers — that giving pets as gifts is not a great idea. But don’t think for a minute that means they’re not advocates for pet adoption. On the contrary, for nearly all of them, finding safe, stable and permanent homes for shelter and rescue animals is a core part of their mission.
So what would be wrong, then, with giving a fluffy puppy or a cuddly kitten as a Christmas gift? Well, a lot, they say, and as the holiday season approaches, they’re urging pet lovers at least to consider some alternative approaches.
“My advice regarding giving pets as a holiday gift is twofold,” said Dr. Patrick Grogan, medical director of VCA Woodland East Animal Hospital in Tulsa. “The first advice is that the gift of a pet should never be a surprise. The recipient should be fully involved in the decision to add a pet to the household.
“The second advice is to ignore the calendar in regard to the timing of the gift of a pet. Finding the right match in age, temperament, size and so forth is much more important than setting a deadline to have selected the pet.”
Experts note that the holidays can already be full of activity, and adding a brand-new pet to the mix sometimes makes things harder for both people and animals. Also, gift-givers often think they know the desires of the recipient, but they might be wrong. And while the thought is always kind, only the future pet parent truly knows which animal will be the right fit for their life and home.
“Pets come with a long-term commitment and are not toys,” said Jamee Suarez, founder and president of the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals. “Pets are sentient beings with their own needs and personalities, deserving of love and a lifelong commitment. Plus, we all know the holidays can be particularly stressful for both new pet owners and their animals. Sadly, many pets received as gifts end up in shelters or are rehomed shortly after the holiday when the novelty wears off or the reality of their care becomes overwhelming.”
Nancy Gallimore, president of Tails You Win K-9 Rescue, adds that if the holidays can be overwhelming and exhausting for humans, “imagine how a new little puppy or kitten might view the chaos.”
“You also need to be sure the intended recipient really wants a pet and is ready and able to accept the responsibility of a pet — both the physical care and financial burden.”
Tracy Arvidson, director of Sand Springs Animal Welfare, said it’s critical to truly understand what an intended recipient’s wishes are concerning companion animals.
“The person receiving the gift may not be ready to commit to a new pet for its life, or they may want something different than you choose, or they may not want a pet at all.”
But you had your heart set on giving a Golden Retriever puppy to your golden-haired niece or a cuddly lap cat to your elderly aunt. Now what? You can still offer the gift of a pet to your loved ones, experts say.
“If it’s something that has been discussed at length with the recipient, consider taking a trip to a local shelter to meet animals in need of a home, and let the person create a connection with one that will be a good fit,” said Kelly Hines, clinic manager of Spay Oklahoma.
“It’s unfair to both parties to choose for them.”
Arvidson suggested that the gift-giver could pay for an adoption and then present the recipient with a gift certificate to pick out the pet of their choice when they’re ready.
“We want each adoption to be chosen by the main caretaker, so there is the best chance for the best match,” she said.
Coty Vincent, an animal welfare officer for Sand Springs Animal Welfare, agreed.
“While we certainly want to find pets forever homes — and during the holiday can be such a cheerful and memorable time to do so — I highly recommend considering giving a gift card to a pet supply store or writing in a card to your loved one that you want to pay the adoption fee on a pet of their choice at the local shelter or pet rescue,” she said.
“That way they get to pick the pet they want, and an animal finds a loving home.”
Gallimore said that if a gift-giver is determined to surprise a family member with a new pet, they must ensure that everyone in the household wants a pet, and they must be willing to accept responsibility for caring for the pet themselves.
“If you answer both questions with a confident yes, instead of trying to orchestrate having a new pet under the tree — an often traumatizing event for young animals — make the big reveal by buying supplies for your intended new family member,” she said.
“You can wrap things like toys, a bed, a crate, food, bowls, a collar and leash in festive paper for the big reveal. Then you can take your family member out after the holiday, when things have calmed down a bit, to adopt a mutually chosen pet.”
With just a little thought and planning, the dream of giving the gift of a pet can still come true in a way that sets both pets and people up for a happy, lasting bond. And that, as both experts and pet lovers can agree, is the best gift of all.
Sidebar
A Surprise They’ll Never Forget
A Holiday Scavenger Hunt for Kids
If you’ve already decided you’re ready to commit to a furry family member, you can create a magical holiday experience with a festive scavenger hunt. Kids can enjoy the thrill of discovery while the new pet waits for its big debut a few days later.
Tips for a successful scavenger hunt
- Start Small — Hide treats, toys or notes in easy spots to build excitement.
- Theme It Festively — Use holiday wrapping, stickers or themed clues for a cheerful touch.
- End With the Big Reveal — The final clue can reveal a framed photo of the new
pet or a “coming soon” note. - Build Anticipation — Mark the calendar for the pet’s arrival so kids can count down the days.
- Include a Special Gift — Add a stocking with toys, food or a blanket to make the upcoming arrival feel extra special.
A scavenger hunt is a playful way to celebrate the holidays, build anticipation and welcome your new furry family member — guaranteed to make little eyes sparkle and hearts swell with joy!
