| Just imagine the look of surprise and the squeals of | | | | discussed and agreed upon by the family prior to |
| delight you would experience if your children found an | | | | bringing home a puppy. |
| adorable, fuzzy puppy under the Christmas tree. It | | | | Do you know if you want a big dog or a small dog? |
| would truly be a moment to capture on film or video | | | | Have you done research if you want a specific |
| and remember for years to come. The problem is, | | | | breed, or do you want to adopt a pet from the |
| the moment turns into years of commitment. Training | | | | shelter? If you still want to surprise the kids with a |
| a puppy takes time and patience, as well as | | | | pet for Christmas, after the grownups have come to |
| willingness to deal with the occasional mess. The point | | | | an agreement, you can put a collar and leash in a box |
| is, bringing home a puppy for Christmas is very | | | | and wrap that as a gift...the kids will figure it out |
| appealing but it is something that has to be given a | | | | quickly enough! Then, all the details can be discussed |
| lot of thought and discussion. | | | | as a family before you bring the pup home. Visiting |
| Many puppies end up in shelters a few weeks or | | | | the local animal shelter as a family is a good way for |
| months after Christmas because the recipient can't or | | | | everyone to have their say in which furry new friend |
| doesn't want to spend the time and money required | | | | you will bring home. Its also a wonderful opportunity |
| for puppy care. The decision to bring a puppy into | | | | to teach the children about animals in shelters and |
| your family needs to be made with the input and | | | | how adopting a pet saves homeless animals. |
| understanding of everyone. Is Mom going to be the | | | | So, before you decide to make a new puppy your |
| only one to take care of and clean up after the | | | | Christmas surprise, think carefully about whether you |
| newest family member? Will Dad get stuck taking | | | | are committed for the long haul. It would be great to |
| the puppy out for walks in the rain? What will happen | | | | see animals in shelters find homes at Christmas, |
| to Sparky when the family wants to travel? These | | | | rather than see animals brought to the shelter after |
| are just a few of the things that need to be | | | | Christmas. |