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PUPPIES ARE NOT PRESENTS
Why you shouldn’t give a puppy as a holiday gift
1-A puppy should be a thoroughly thought out decision, not an impulsive surprise. A dog changes your household and you must be ready for all the responsibility that comes with a dog, a responsibility that remains for the life of the dog.
2-Your children will lose interest in a new puppy as quickly as they lose interest in their Christmas presents. Walking a dog in the rain and cold, picking up poop quickly becomes an annoying chore when the thrill of the new pup wears off.
3-Kids are unreliable pet caregivers and the life of a dog should not depend on you teaching your kids responsibility.
4-Responsible dog providers (breeders, shelters) do not support the idea of puppies as presents. Any “breeder” or pet store that breeds for Christmas presents has the kind of dog you don’t want… inbred, unsocialized and strife with medical issues.
If you really want a dog, choose it carefully, and take your time. Get one from a reputable breeder, an experienced rescue group, or an established animal shelter. Ask lots of questions. A store clerk or puppy mill breeder who simply hands you a dog in exchange for your money is not your friend. Experienced dog people know the dogs they sell and the people they are selling them to. A puppy is just as cute in March as it is under a Christmas tree.
Put a picture or a stuffed dog under the tree along with some dog supplies and a promissory note. After the holidays are over, you and your family can thoughtfully and carefully visit shelters, talk to workers or volunteers experienced in helping match the right dog to your family. You will find the dog or puppy of your dreams!
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