adopting a pet during holidays

Posted By SLCo Animal Services
December 12, 2018

There have been many mixed opinions on getting a pet for Christmas and often at Salt Lake County Animal Services we are told that the holidays are not the right time. But any time is a good time to bring love into your life, and what greater gift can we give to an animal than a loving, lasting home.

If you are considering bringing a pet into your home whether it is now, or it is 6 months from now. You need to be ready.

• No matter when you adopt a pet, be sure you are ready for a long-term commitment to care for and love the animal, and that your household is able.
  
  
• Don’t just give a pet as a gift to someone without first making sure they want a companion animal. Some people might love animals but not have the time or the ability to care for one. It’s also a good idea to let the person pick out their own pet. Consider taking them into a shelter or rescue to let them find the perfect pet for themselves.

• Timing is everything. The holidays tend to be rather busy and our pets can get a little stressed. If you’re planning to go out of town or have a houseful of family guests, schedule the adoption when you’ll have more time to devote to your new family member. That might mean adopting now, giving the pet a chance to acclimate to its new home and settle in before the madness starts, or possibly waiting until after the holidays. It doesn’t mean you can’t have a pet now; you’ll just need to take precautions to keep it safe and happy.
  
  
• It’s important that children realize from an early age that a pet is a living, breathing creature that requires gentle handling, proper feeding and a certain amount of clean up. Let’s be honest, there are some adults who need to learn those lessons, too. Children learn to love and respect all animals by having a pet in the family. Showing them how it’s done will help your child become a better, kinder person and learn responsibility.

A few things to remember as you head out to potentially add a new family member to your home. Include everyone in the adoption. “Meet and greet” It is just as important that your current pets find your new addition as good of a fit as you do.

Consider lifestyle factors and what is the best pet for your home. Are you looking for an adventure seeker or a couch potato? Make sure you are ready for the responsibility of a new pet.

We hope you’ll consider bringing a pet home this holiday. The love they share is the greatest gift of all.

Take a look at our Hoppy Meowlidays promotion for Cats, Bunnies and small mammals this month. We're offering $5 adoption fees for these furry friends through December 31, 2018.