Unlike other holiday presents, owners cannot just pop in
a fresh battery or put the pet away in the closet after the novelty wears off. Studies
show that too often the gift puppy is given up within the first year and brought
to shelters, like SCRAPS, because they have “behavior problems” caused by a
lack of training and supervision in the first few months.
Pets should never be an impulse purchase. Individuals and
families thinking of getting a pet should research, prepare and then, when the
time is right, seek a pet who realistically compliments their lifestyle,
schedule and energy level.
SCRAPS offers gift certificates that allow a family to
“purchase” a new pet but let everyone in the family actual choose the specific
animal later when things quite down.
Preparing and planning for your new family member is key to making a
life-long commitment to a pet.