Christmas eve or Christmas day (or Chanukah) is not a good time to introduce a new animal into a household.

 It is best done before or later, when things are calmer and there's more time to help the kitten or puppy adjust to their new surroundings.

With all the activity during the celebrations, it's possible that the kitten or puppy may be frightened or distressed. A new pet may also be upset by the stressful emotions of the humans around them. A stressed pet, particularly an energetic and playful kitten or pup who is left unsupervised, is more likely to get into trouble.

The rich fare served during the holidays can irresistibly tempt a constantly-hungry pup to steal and devour these goodies from the table or garbage. Another temptation is to hand feed a new pets tidbits as a special meal. Having access to spicy, fatty or excessively-sweet Christmas foods is a recipe for having a sick pet.

Other Holiday dangers for new pets include their investigations of shiny decorations with wonderfully strange odors. Most puppies explore by mouthing objects that interest them. If a pup chews on decorative lights, extension cords, glass ornaments, tinsel or leaves from seasonal plants, they could become injured, seriously ill or even die. A dead puppy is not a good Christmas present.  Kittens and cats can easily ingest tinsel that can tangel in their digestive systems.

Be sure the purchase of a new pet is a well thought out  plan, not a last minute gift idea.

Getting a pet should not be a spur of the moment decision.

                                                               

We advocate that if a person wants a puppy, they should choose the pet themselves so that it is compatible with their lifestyle. They must want it, agree to accept responsibility for it and be willing to provide care for the animal.   Never buy a pet as a gift for someone else. It is a very personal choice and a long term commitment for the person adopting.
If the decision to get or give a puppy as a present has definitely been made - hopefully with much forethought - we recommend, give a gift certificate, a stuffed animal or pet-care items at Christmas. Wait to bring the new kitten or pup home until after the holidays are finished and people's homes and schedules are less hectic. The right pet will be worth the wait.

Remember, The commitment to a newly acquired pet must last the lifetime of that animal, not just on Christmas Day. So before deciding to give a puppy - or any other animal - as a gift remember:

Pets Are Forever.

 

You could consider making a donation in their name.

All gifts to Last Hope are tax deductible and both the donor and the gift recipient will have their name posted on the memorial page of our web site!

To Donate online click below

 

If you would prefer to mail a check, send it to the address at the bottom of this page.

Thanks for supporting the animals!