Avoid surprise factor when giving a pet

Hawaiian Humane Society

It's the time of year when we are searching for the perfect gift to give someone special.

Keep in mind that animals should not be given to someone as a surprise gift.

You may think a pet would make a cute and cuddly present for the family. Imagine that puppy or kitten wearing a big red bow. Think of the adorable photos.

Even people who have voiced interest in getting a pet might not react well to receiving an animal as a surprise. Though you anticipate a delightful response, it is not appropriate for you to choose an animal who will be someone else's companion for the next 10 or 20 years.

The addition of a living being to a family should be well thought-out ahead of time and be a decision made by everyone in the household. Once the family is in agreement, there are ways to say, "Surprise, we're getting a new pet," while saving the actual pet selection until after the holidays.

Buy a book on pet care and place it under the holiday tree. Wrap up some pet toys and food dishes.

Put that red bow on a plush stuffed toy.

Purchase a gift certificate from the Hawaiian Humane Society which can be used later for an adoption or pet supplies.

Once the holidays have passed, you'll have plenty of time to select that companion animal. Make it a family outing and visit the humane society together.

Your group might need to make more than one visit before you decide on the right pet. After all, your new friend will be part of your household for many years.

The shelter has a variety of dogs and cats of all ages, and usually rabbits, guinea pigs, turtles, rodents and birds.

Talk with an adoption counselor at the humane society about the type of animal you have in mind. The counselors' goal is to provide a loving home for every animal.

Dogs and cats adopted from the humane society have been sterilized and have received initial vaccinations and microchip ID. Two weeks of post-adoption care is also included in the modest adoption fee.

Sharing your home and heart with an animal will keep the warm spirit of the holidays alive within your family for years to come.

When your family is ready for a lifelong relationship with a pet, all of us at the Hawaiian Humane Society hope that you'll give a shelter animal a loving new home.

Happy holidays!

ADOPTABLES

Tag No. 14697

Basking in the sun is a beautiful gray tiger cat named Homer. He is an affectionate guy about 2 years old and neutered. You can adopt Homer and another cat or kitten for just one adoption fee. Pick a pair!

Angel

Angel is a male, rough- coat collie mix and is about 4 years old. He is a handsome medium-size guy who would love to join an active family with older children. Angel prefers to be the only pet in the household.

These animals already may have found new homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open noon to 8 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. The incoming-animals area always is open. If you've lost or found an animal, call the society at 946-2187, ext. 285. See www.hawaiianhumane.org.