Gwynedd Council’s Public Protection Service is urging people to think long and hard before giving a new pet as a Christmas present this year.
A pet is for life, not just for Christmas – as the adage goes. But it still rings true today and the ultimate gift on Christmas day is a commitment for years to come.
Pets are hard work – they demand a lot of care and attention, can be expensive to keep and need lots of space to live happily.
Gwynedd Council’s Public Protection Service would urge people to consider these points before going ahead and purchasing a pet for themselves or as a gift:
- Does the person really want a pet? Expressing a love of animals does not always equate with having the commitment to be a responsible pet owner.
- Don’t be afraid to ask someone outright if they really want a pet and are able to look after it in the long term before buying.
- Pets can be expensive – food, equipment, insurance and vet bills can stack up over time. Can the person afford to keep a pet?
- Not everyone’s lifestyle suits having a pet. For example, someone who travels a lot may not be suited to having a pet.
- Research the breed you are thinking of getting. Dogs and cats can live for up to 20 years; a cockatoo can survive for 60 years; a tortoise can plausibly outlive its owner. You need to understand that owning a pet is a long-term commitment and even consider making provisions should your pet outlive you.
- Some landlords will not allow pets in their property – make enquiries before making a purchase.
Alaw Vaughan Jones, Gwynedd Council’s Animal Welfare Officer, said:
“Pets are for life and people should avoid buying them as a gift, especially at Christmas. Animals are delightful companions and are a welcomed inclusion for many families, but buying pets on the spur of the moment can prove troublesome.
“Choosing and buying an animal must be done with great thought, care and consideration.”
Councillor John R Jones, Gwynedd Council’s Portfolio Leader with responsibility for Public Protection, added:
“Too many unwanted pets are dumped just after Christmas as people realise that keeping an animal is much more than a seasonal novelty.
“It may be a wonderful to see your child’s face light up when they get a cute puppy or kitten on Christmas morning, but animals grow and demand a lot of care and attention. I would urge people to think carefully before buying a new pet.”
