Animals for Christmas: to give as a gift or not? Experts advise!

Animals for Christmas: to give as a gift or not? Experts advise!

The Christmas season is approaching and many children dream of having a pet under the Christmas tree. But the question remains: Is giving a living creature as a gift really a good idea? Experts strongly warn against giving animals as gifts. As Victoria Bischof, the chairwoman of the St. Pölten Animal Welfare Association, emphasized in an interview, having a pet not only means joy, but above all responsibility and a long-term decision. According to Bishop, it is important that the decision to get an animal is influenced by adults and not by a gift.

The impulsive desire for a cute dog, a purring cat or a hopping rabbit can quickly turn into a nightmare when the reality of daily effort and care overwhelms the child's heart. As a personal experience shows, the initial enthusiasm for animal care often does not last long and can lead to tension in family life. “Nobody was interested in all the extra stuff anymore,” says the author, describing what many children and parents experience while caring for animals. As Maria Girod notes, children should also share responsibility for the animal with their parents. Ultimately, adults bear the primary responsibility, even if it is the children who want the pet.

Responsibility and alternatives

Having a pet means not only time, but also financial commitments that can often last for 15 years or more. Therefore, it is advisable to consider alternatives. The animal protection association offers suggestions such as sponsorships for animals in animal shelters, which are not only a responsible option, but also give children the opportunity to support animals and learn from caring for them. These sponsorships combine joy with responsibility and could help children develop an appreciation for animals without immediately applying for their own pet GreatAbea reported.

Despite the romantic desire for an animal, the decision should be carefully considered. Children are often not yet able to understand the long-term implications. Therefore, a real discussion within the family is essential before taking the step of bringing an animal into your home. Ultimately, it's about a living being and not a toy, as Victoria Bischof emphatically emphasizes. Responsibility for animals means really wanting to care for them – for years to come. It's not just the first magic of getting to know each other that counts, but the lasting care that is necessary throughout life.