Think twice before adopting a pet for Christmas

ATTICA, Ind. (WLFI) - The squeaks of a puppy or the faint meows of a kitten may be hard to turn down. Dr. Tracy Sudlow of Attica's Paws 'n' Claws Animal Shelter, and other animal shelter directors, said to take a step back and think twice before adopting a pet for a gift.

"[The animals] are cute," Sudlow said. "They're fun and cuddly. They cost a lot to feed, they take a lot of time and energy requirements. Some people six to eight months down the road think, 'Oh my gosh I had no idea it was going to be like this.' Then [the animals] are right back where they started [in the shelter]."

Sudlow said it is common for those who receive the pets to return them to the shelter. She said make sure you know who you're buying for.

"I would not recommend getting a pet as a complete surprise gift," Sudlow said. "You need to make sure that person is comfortable having a pet, having that responsibility, and having that commitment."

Sudlow said when potential pet adopters come in they're interviewed by staff to make sure they're guided to the right pet.

"If you're a busy college student or a single person who works a lot, you're not home a lot," Sudlow said. "You're not there, but you want a companion, which is great. However, getting that puppy that is going to be a large breed dog, that is going to require a lot of exercise and a lot of your time may not be best suited for you."

Sudlow doesn't want to discourage anyone from getting the companion they're ready for. She said her kennels are full again with pets ready to be adopted.

"It's a 10 to 15 year commitment," Sudlow said. "These animals are not disposable."

If you're thinking about getting a pet for someone or treating yourself to one Sudlow said she and other animal shelters will be at PetsMart in Lafayette every weekend this month to discuss your options.