Should You Give a Pet as a Gift? Second Chance Shares Better Idea

EAST BROOKFIELD — The holiday season brings sweet videos of puppies and kittens bursting out of gift boxes and into someone’s arms. These moments feel magical, and it can be tempting to surprise a loved one with a new pet of their own. Second Chance Animal Services encourages families to take a thoughtful approach that sets pets and people up for success.

“What those videos don’t show is the confused Christmas and birthday pets who arrive at shelters weeks or months later,” Second Chance CEO Sheryl Blancato said. “Welcoming a pet can be incredibly rewarding, but it is also a long-term responsibility. Every family should take time to research, talk about expectations, and decide what type of pet fits their lifestyle. Adopting is a lifetime commitment.”

Blancato added that no one should be surprised with a pet. “We always hope our pets find loving homes for the holidays, but the best homes are prepared for all that comes with pet ownership. When a pet is given as a gift, the odds are much greater that they will be returned to a shelter, which is emotionally hard for an animal. It is heartbreaking to watch them wait for an owner who is not coming back.”

Instead of gifting a live animal, Second Chance recommends giving items that celebrate the idea of a future pet. A cozy pet bed or bowls with a note that your family is ready to begin researching can be a thoughtful and exciting gift. A handmade certificate for a shelter visit paired with a child-friendly book about caring for pets can help young animal lovers learn what to expect. This year, Second Chance is also offering handcrafted wooden ornaments at all its locations that make perfect gifts while supporting shelter pets.

Families who take time to plan and prepare are more likely to enjoy a successful adoption and create a loving home for years to come.