Gifting Pets for the Holidays

The holiday season is approaching, and many families are considering whether now is the right time to get the pet their loved ones have been asking for. Gifting a dog, cat, bird, or fish can be a fun and exciting present during the holidays, but it comes with a lot of responsibility. Bringing a new animal into the home changes the current dynamics of the household, and there are several things you should consider. If you are interested in purchasing a new pet for a loved one this season, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Do Pets Make Good Gifts?
Pets can make fun and memorable gifts if gifted in the right way. But it’s important to remember that animals are living beings, and surprising a family with an animal that they are not expecting or anticipating can cause stress to the individuals as well as the animal. It is important that all members of the household (at least all adults) are in agreement on bringing a new pet into the home. Buying a new cat or dog for your niece, nephew, or grandchild without the parent’s consent can create a negative experience for all involved. If the new pet owner is not fully on board, rehoming the gifted pet can be traumatic for the household and the animal.
What To Consider When Gifting a Pet
If you have determined that gifting an animal is the right fit for your loved one or friend, consider the following items as you plan out your special holiday gift.
- Is it the right time to gift a pet?
- Although the individual or family may have made it clear that they would love a new pet, is the timing right? Do they have other big stressors in their lives right now that may make a new pet more of a challenge right now?
- Is the new pet owner prepared for the pet?
- Make sure you know that the new owner’s living arrangements allow for this gift. If they live in an apartment, is it pet friendly? If they are in a single family home, do they have a fenced in yard or space for a new dog/ cat?
- Are there allergies that you need to be aware of when picking out the pet? Do you need to consider a dog that has hypoallergenic fur?
- Does the individual travel frequently or work long hours? (Cats are ok for a few days with food and water left out vs dogs that need care throughout the day)
- Can the recipient afford to care for the pet?
- Animals are living things that require a full time commitment. When you gift a pet, you are essentially adding to that household's living expenses. Consider if they can maintain the ongoing care the animal needs.
- Will you purchase all the pet essentials along with the pet?
- Consider providing some of the main essentials along with the animal when determining your budget for this gift. Of course the new pet owners will want to pick some stuff up for their new pets, but provide some of the basics ( crate, bed, food bowls, food, pet toy, collar etc) for a few days until they are able to do so.
- What will you do if the pet is not accepted?
- If for some reason, your loved one can not accept the new pet, have a back up plan. Be ready to return, re-home or home the animal yourself. A new pet is a large responsibility and some individuals may not want to take this on.
How to Gift a Cat or Dog
Many of us envision an adorable dog or cute kitten tucked away in a basket with a red ribbon around their neck, anxiously waiting to meet their new family. While this way of getting a pet is classic and picturesque, it may not be the best way. One of the most important benefits of having a cat or dog is the bond between them and their owners. Like us, every animal has their own personality, likes and dislikes. Spending time with them helps us see whether or not we would be a good match together. Picking out our cat or dog is an important and fun part of the process that can be missed if the pet is pre-selected and gifted to us.
Let the Gift Recipient Choose Their Pet
There are several ways you could go about letting your loved one or friend choose the pet they would like as a gift. Consider buying a gift certificate to cover the cost of purchasing or adopting the animal. They can go at any time that fits their schedule to pick out the new pet together. Another option is to offer to go with them to the shelter and store and pay the bill after they have made their selections. You may find that this method gives an added experience and creates stronger memories for all.
Set them Up for Success!
Cats and dogs require a few essentials for proper care. When gifting them this holiday season, include some of these essentials as part of your gift so that the new owners have what they need to get started.
- Crates & Beds
- Consider a crate and/ or bed for their new pet to sleep in and be in while they're being trained and acclimating to their new households.
- Food Bowls
- Chew Toys
- Their new pets will need something to help keep them entertained. Puppies love to chew!
- Scratching Post
- If gifting a cat or kitten, consider including a scratching post to spare your loved ones furniture.
- Collar & Leash
- Food & Treats
- Most pet owners will want to select their own food and treats for their pets. However, if gifting a pet over the holidays, it may take a few days to get to the store. Purchase enough food to last them a week or so. If they are new to owning pets, they may not be familiar with the various types of foods and treats available on market. You can get them started on the right track by selecting whole limited ingredient foods that will provide the nutrients needed while being gentle on their new pets belly. Check out a few of these limited ingredient treats.
When gifting a pet this year, whether it swims, flies, crawls, or runs, be considerate and thoughtful in your planning for both the recipient and the animal. This will help to ensure the animal is well received and has a smooth transition into its new family. Don’t forget to stock up on gifts for your own furry friend this holiday season! Green Coast Pet has a wide selection of
toy stuffers your dog will love!



