Thinking of giving a pet as a gift this holiday season?

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) December 10, 2004 --
It seems like the ultimate gesture of love, purchasing a puppy or kitten to give to a loved one for the holiday season.

- But do you have the time and energy it takes to potty train a puppy? Or litter train a kitten?
- What happens if the new furniture gets chewed on? Or the carpet gets ruined?
- What if the recipient is allergic?

Pet care professionals around the country are familiar with these holiday gifts gone wrong. Many of these �gifted� animals end up being dropped off at the local rescue shelters or picked up by humane officers after running loose on the streets or being tied up in the yard hungry for attention and sometimes food and shelter, as well.

Some things to consider before purchasing a pet this holiday:

Cost � The cost of acquiring a pet is insignificant compared to the cost of keeping a pet happy and healthy. Pets are an ongoing, continual expense. Aside from the cost of food, beds, collars and leashes, you should consider the cost of basic veterinary care including vaccines, dental cleaning, annual exams, heartworm preventative and basic obedience classes. And what happens if your pet becomes ill or has health problems?

Lifestyle- How often is someone home to care for a pet? A working person with a busy schedule might find the pet becomes bored and destructive when left home alone for too many hours. Do you have space for a pet? Ideally, pets require a space of their own for quiet time. This space should include a bed and crate. Many dogs prefer a fenced in area outdoors for play and exercise. Can you see a pet fitting in to your life? Consider the personality of the person and the pet. Some people naturally prefer a lap dog to a fishing buddy. Allergies to certain pets may also dictate what type of pet may be best for an individual. There are many species and breeds of pets available. Make sure you research carefully before deciding which one is right for you.

Lifespan � Becoming a pet parent is a time commitment and large financial responsibility for many years. Be sure to also consider the lifespan of a pet before making a decision. Do you know where you�ll be living five years from now? The average lifespan of an indoor house cat is about 15-20 years. And, depending on the breed of dog, the lifespan ranges from 8 years (for a giant breed) to 15 years or more (generally for smaller breeds).

Looking for alternatives to giving pets as gifts?

Adoption certificates � If someone really wants a pet, many animal shelters and rescue groups have gift certificates available for purchase. Giving a gift certificate allows you to still give the gift of a pet, but allows the recipient to choose the pet they feel is perfect for them at a time when they feel prepared to have a new pet member. This saves everyone from a potentially unpleasant situation. Adoption certificates include basic adoption fees, which often include spaying or neutering and some vaccinations.

A donation to a local shelter, or rescue group � Individuals who may be currently unable to take on a pet (or an additional one) may welcome this kind gesture. Your monetary donation will help care for unfortunate animals who hope to find a forever family. There are also a number of humane societies and rescue agencies that would be more than happy to share their �wish lists� with you. �Wish Lists� usually include items like pet food, litter, paper towels, treats, blankets and pet supplies. You can locate rescue groups in your area by contacting Lee Anne Emig, owner of The Pet Nanny Pet Sitting Service at (618)407-7517 or by visiting www.petfinder.com.

More information can be found online at http://www.mypetnanny.net

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