Dubai: It may seem like a good idea at the time.
But acquiring a cuddly, furry little puppy or kitten for a Christmas present is not the wisest decision, advises a top veterinarian in Dubai.
Dr Sara Elliott of the British Veterinary Hospital in Dubai said, “If you’re thinking of giving a loved one a pet this year, I would urge you to hold off until the new year. Think longer about it and have a conversation with the intended recipient to ensure they both want a pet and are aware of the responsibilities attached. A pet is for life so they shouldn’t be given as seasonal gifts.”
If the decision goes in favour of adding a pet to the family, Elliott urged people to go the adoption route rather than buying an animal to give abandoned pets a new chance at life.
That said, animal adoption is still generally discouraged over the Christmas period, she said.
“Some dog charities,” said Elliott, “do not allow any of their pets to be adopted over the December festive period as they want to discourage families from taking a pet to gift to someone.”
Helping Hands Humane Society historically has received many animals back within a couple of months of adoption over the festive period, reporting a five per cent bump in admissions last January, according to Margaret Price, director of animal welfare with HHHS, in a statement from the hospital.
Dr Elliott said anyone considering taking on the responsibility of owning a pet should fully understand the financial aspect of caring for an animal.
She estimated that it can cost up to Dh10,000 to properly care for a pet per year.
“Researching the right pet for your household and lifestyle is very important. Taking on a pet is a long-term commitment that can affect your life for the next 15 years so it is important to ensure you have adequate time and financial resources to care for your pet responsibly.”
Local dog charity SNIFF has first-hand experience of the devastating consequences for animals who have been rejected by their owners.
“Currently we have a crisis on our hands with over 40 dogs that urgently need to be rehomed after a particularly rough summer period with higher than usual numbers of pets being dumped,” said Laetita Guidicelli, SNIFF volunteer.
“We would urge people to visit shelters like ours or animal hospitals to educate themselves about the welfare of animals and how they should be cared for before they commit to a pet,” said Guidicelli in a statement.
