(2008-05-09) Direct Line
What do you get for the man, woman or child that seems to have everything? A novel gift idea is give a pet as a present.
What do you get for the man, woman or child that seems to have everything? A novel gift idea is give a pet as a present. It comes with a lifetime of happiness, companionship and comfort. But, you need to do your homework before you consider giving a pet for a present. If you are not really sure that the person wants a pet or if you have doubts about whether they could give the pet the care and attention it needs, then don’t do it.
Before you buy any pet as a present, find out as much as you can about what pets the person likes, what kind of pet would suit their lifestyle and most importantly, if they are allergic. Dogs love company and exercise. They are better suited to owners that have the time to take them for walks, play with them and don’t mind them chewing on the furniture. Cats on the other hand are more self-sufficient. They like attention on their terms and are quite happy to come and go when they please, sleep most of the day away in the sun, and go on the hunt at night. Another thought before you go ahead and buy a pet is to consider how much it is going to cost to keep it. Take into consideration vet bills, pet insurance, food, accessories like collars and combs, and toys before you buy.
You can buy a pet from a pet shop or you can get one from an animal rescue shelter. Animal rescue shelters have the advantage of being able to tell you more about a potential pet’s personality, habits and if it is kid-friendly and sociable. If the person you are giving the pet to already has animals at home, you need to make sure your present has been socialised or it could cause a whole lot of trouble.
Pets are a unique gift idea but if you are not sure whether to give a pet as a present, ask the person you are thinking of giving it to. It may ruin the surprise but it’s better to sound them out before you make a lifetime commitment for them.