Written by A.R.F. Volunteer Hannah D.

Animal companions can be wonderful additions to people’s lives. Pet owners love to talk about their pets and all of the memories they’ve made over the years. The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry details the potential benefits of pet ownership, which include teaching responsibility and respect, as well as fostering a relationship with nature. In the long-term, this study found that adults with pets, especially dogs, experience cognitive and brain health benefits from pet ownership.

Understandably, people want to share this joy, and around the holidays, that can mean gifting pets to others. Unfortunately, the excitement can lead to a lack of thoughtfulness. Most people probably know that boxing up animals under the tree is a bad idea. However, it is also a risk to pick out animals for other people.

Here are several things to consider when it comes to gifting animals:

• Does the recipient know the benefits and responsibilities of proper pet care?
• Are they prepared for the financial and emotional commitment?
• If the recipient is a child, have their parents approved this? Is the child ready?

If this is not the right time for the recipient to bring a pet into their home but they have a passion for animal welfare, consider making a donation in their name here.

If this is the right time, consider offering to pay the adoption fee and assist them with the application. With this method, you get to be involved in the process from start to finish! We have created a ready-to-print coupon so that they can open something from you and get excited for their new pet.

Wherever you and your loved ones are in your pet journey, A.R.F. is here to support you, and we hope you stay engaged with us. Happy holidays!