Pets of the Kawarthas

Pets of the Kawarthas

By Susan Porter Dunkley, Peterborough Humane Society

It can seem like a great idea at the time, but the team at the Peterborough Humane Society (PHS) want to remind pet lovers of the do’s and don’ts of adopting during the holiday season. While getting our animals into their new forever home is important to the team at PHS, the busy holiday season can be a hard time for a new family member to get settled, what with paper, tinsel, chocolate, and people coming & going. A new pet can easily escape in the busyness of the holidays.

For those of you who are choosing for someone else, perhaps consider giving a gift card under the tree, allowing the family to make a choice together after the busy holiday season. Remember that many people have allergies, so when considering that wonderful puppy or kitten for a gift, avoid the heartbreak of having to return a pet by making sure that allergies of any type will not be an issue.

We recommend that you get your whole family involved in the process. It is an emotional time choosing the right pet for your family and you want everyone involved in the decision,

as this pet is now a part of your family for the next ten – fifteen years.

Also, consider the cost of having a pet. While all animals that come from the shelter are spayed/ neutered, microchipped and have all their vaccines, not all adoptions provide these services and it can add up. Also consider the costs of licensing, pet supplies (and that little jacket that you simply must have!), food and boarding fees should you travel before making the decision to bring a furry friend home.

A pet can be the best gift in the world, regardless of the time of year.