By Thia James

Gifted pets a ‘lifetime’ commitment for receiver: SPCA

Dec 18, 2014 | 5:35 AM

The Prince Albert SPCA wants those who are thinking about giving the gift of a pet this Christmas to know that means a lifetime commitment for the person receiving the pet.

Meagan Boucher, adoption co-ordinator with the SPCA, said the pet can live for 15 years or more. She said the person receiving the pet needs to know they will be responsible for it as if they would be for a child.

“It’s not fair to re-home an animal just because you don’t have time for them, or because you don’t feel like you’re giving it enough attention. Those are things you need to consider before you even get a pet.”

She said if the person receiving the gift of a cat or dog should be involved in the decision, as well as learning about caring for the pet.

“I guess it’s just really important to make sure all your bases are covered and you’re prepared to give that lifetime commitment,” Boucher said.

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The SPCA hasn’t seen a rise in adoptions at this time of the year, which to Boucher, could be a good thing. While they’ve received complaints that the adoption fees are high, the fee helps people think about the real cost of owning a pet.

“Just having a free dog is like ‘woohoo.’ Actually having the money to put down into an adoption fee helps you consider, they are costs to having an animal and that it’s a lifelong thing and it’s a responsibility.”

Unwanted pets that were once gifts have found their way to the SPCA, even though the organization does not adopt pets out for the purpose of being a gift. Those pets are often bought from backyard breeders or pet stores and become unwanted when they’re no longer cute and cuddly, according to Boucher.

“People just thinking puppies are really cute and cuddly and kittens are awesome and cute and cuddly and they don’t realize how much work goes into having one. It’s just like having a child.”

tjames@panow.com

On Twitter: @thiajames