How to Buy a Pet for Christmas

Who hasn't been charmed by the little puppy or kitten with the Christmas bow? Who hasn't known someone who'd love a new pet for the holiday? Unfortunately, buying a pet as a gift can be a disaster. Here's how to do it right.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pet supplies; including a leash, pet food, dishes and pet bed

1. Know the person you're buying the pet for. Don't get a dog person a cat, or vice versa. Also, know what specific kind of dog or cat they might be interested in.

2. Consider giving an older animal from a shelter. Little kittens and puppies make cute gifts up until that first "extra present" on the living room carpet.

3. Be sure you have a back-up plan. It's not just the person you're getting the pet for you risk disappointing if they don't want the pet, it's also the little bundle of fuzzy joy you bought.

4. Be sure the person's parents or roommates or spouse or whatever are aware of your plan.

5. Consult with the breeder and/or animal shelter you intend to buy from. Talk to the them about the kind of person this pet is meant as a present for.

6. Don't just give the pet, give everything else the person the fuzzy gift is for will need. This includes something to feed the pet, as well as a place for the pet to sleep, as well as a leash and food dishes.

Tips & Warnings

• Ideally, if you really want to give a pet as a gift, take the person it's intended for with you. Surprise them by buying it for them, but let them find the pet that's right for them. Just because you think it's cute and cuddly doesn't guarantee the pet and it's prospective owner will be a good fit.
• Be aware of any potential allergies or other restrictions before giving a pet. Maybe there's a good reason they don't have one already.