The German Animal Welfare Federation strongly advises against giving animals as Christmas surprises. Although pets such as dogs, cats or rabbits are often on children's wish lists, buying them is a long-term decision that needs to be carefully considered. Animals are living creatures with individual needs that require time, money and responsibility. Giving them away thoughtlessly often leads to them being handed in sooner or later to the already chronically overcrowded animal shelters.
“An animal is not something that you can simply exchange if you don't like it or that you can give away when you've had enough,” explains Lea Schmitz, spokesperson for the German Animal Welfare Federation. “They are sentient beings. Pet owners must be prepared to take responsibility for many years. The decision to adopt an animal must be carefully considered and made consciously by the person giving the animal a home.” Before moving in with dogs and cats, it is also important that the animal and the future pet owner get to know each other in advance to see if the chemistry is right.
THOUGHTLESSLY GIVEN ANIMALS OFTEN END UP IN AN ANIMAL SHELTER
Many animal Christmas presents end up at the animal shelter after the holidays or in the course of the new year - often at the latest when the vacation season arrives and no care can be found. Many recipients underestimate the effort, time or money involved in keeping an animal. After a while, parents realize that they have to take care of the dog after all, even though the children had promised to walk the dog or clean the litter tray. In such situations, you can't rely on an animal shelter to take care of the animal when you want to get rid of it, warns Schmitz: “The animal shelters are currently full, have to keep putting a stop to taking in animals and then can't take any more in.”
WELL-PREPARED FOR THE ANIMAL SHELTER INSTEAD OF A SPONTANEOUS PURCHASE
The German Animal Welfare Federation recommends involving the whole family in the decision before buying a pet. Anyone who decides on an animal after careful consideration should look for a suitable animal companion at an animal shelter. There are numerous animals of all types, characters and ages waiting for a new home in the shelters. However, Christmas with all its hustle and bustle and other festive occasions are not the right time to take in a new family member, according to the German Animal Welfare Association. An animal guidebook is more suitable for reading. Alternatively, symbolic sponsorships for shelter animals are also a good gift.
