DATCP Says Reconsider Buying a Pet for Christmas

Monday, December 19th, 2022 -- 11:01 AM

(Raymond Neupert, WRN) If you're thinking about buying a pet for a loved one for Christmas, you might want to reconsider.

If you're thinking about buying a pet for a loved one for Christmas, you might want to reconsider. State Consumer Protection director Michael Domke says that while the impulse to do something cute and memorable for Christmas might be enticing, a pet is a long-term decision. 

"You're seeing that commercial with the cute puppy busting out of the box, you think 'I want to replicate that,' but you don't give a lot of thought to all the long-term care needs of that particular animal."

Domke says buying a pet sight unseen can lead to heartbreak, so maybe consider taking the time to adopt a pet from your local shelter. "The best advice is to make sure you can actually see the pet, you can verify that it exists and that it's in good health and it's the one you want to get."

Domke says that going to the shelter assures you that your pet has a medical history and has been checked out. And your local shelter can help direct you to a pet that will best suit your family.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.