By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator
EACH year as Christmas approaches, the excitement of gift-giving fills the air. Among the most heart-warming presents we imagine are wagging tails, tiny paws, and the joy of bringing home a new puppy. But behind the festive glow lies an important message that deserves to be repeated louder than ever: a pet is for life, not just for Christmas.
Welcoming a pet into your family is a commitment that extends far beyond the holiday season. It means taking responsibility for a living, feeling being who relies on you for love, safety, and daily care every day of the year. While the idea of surprising someone—especially a child—with a puppy or kitten on Christmas morning may seem magical, it often leads to heartbreak when the realities of pet ownership set in.
Pets are family, not a Christmas accessory: A dog or cat is not a toy, a trend, or a temporary happiness. They are family members who form deep bonds with the people they live with. They need stability, routine, and ongoing care to thrive. From the early morning toilet breaks to training, socialisation, feeding, grooming, exercise, and veterinary care—pets require attention and investment throughout their entire lives.
Many puppies and kittens adopted impulsively in December end up surrendered to shelters by mid-year because families underestimate the time, cost, and patience required. It’s a cycle that rescues see far too often, and one we can all help break by making thoughtful, informed decisions about pet ownership.
Understanding the commitment: Depending on the breed and health of the pet, you’re making a commitment that can span 10–15 years or more. This means considering your lifestyle, finances, future plans, and household dynamics. Can you afford routine vet visits and emergency care? Do you have time each day for training and exercise? Are you prepared for the challenges of puppyhood—chewed shoes, toilet training accidents, and sleepless nights?
Asking these questions honestly is not about discouraging pet ownership—it’s about ensuring that every pet finds a stable, loving home where they can flourish.
A better way to include pets at Christmas: If your family is genuinely considering welcoming a puppy or kitten, Christmas can still be part of the journey—just in a more thoughtful and responsible way. Instead of rushing into ownership, consider fostering a pet from your local shelter over the holiday season. It’s a great way to experience the realities of pet care while also giving an animal a loving temporary home.
The joy a pet brings lasts far longer than Christmas morning. With responsible ownership, they become loyal companions, trusted confidants, and cherished members of the family. By reinforcing the message that a pet is for life, we can help ensure that every pet finds the loving, lifelong home they deserve—not just for Christmas, but for every season that follows.
The team at Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital will be available to help you over the Christmas-New Year period. Phone us on 4736 2027.
