The Christmas season has been notorious for families bringing a new pet into their home, and this year, Covid-19 has seen a surge of new pet ownership. There are several “do’s and don’ts” when considering bringing a pup, kitten, or shelter animal into one’s home. 

“We are getting a steady stream of people calling or reaching out to our team wanting to find different breeds or have adopted recently for the holidays with many questions,” says Gwen Meyer owner of Meyer’s Tail Up Farm in Belvidere and Meyer’s Canine Colony in Roscoe.  “It’s great we’re emptying out shelters and so many are finding a home, but we also want it to be their forever home,” Gwen Meyer adds.

There are many “do’s and don’ts” when considering bringing a puppy, kitten, or shelter animal into one’s home. Consider the following factors when getting a living creature for a friend or family member:

• Cost:  Acknowledge that the recipient should be financially capable and willing to budget food, supplies, insurance, and veterinary care into their expenses.  
• Interest: Your friend or family member might have swooned over a passing dog on the sidewalk, but has he or she expressed personal interest in wanting a pet? Be sure that the person has openly confirmed that he or she could handle the responsibility.  
• Lifestyle: Is the receiver working long hours or from home? Does he or she participate in many extracurricular activities? Are young children present in the house? Once you’re sure that the individual wants an animal, consider his or her lifestyle as well as any current or future commitments. 
• Pet type: If the recipient lives in an apartment or condo, a large dog breed probably isn’t the best option. If the family doesn’t have time or space for vigorous exercise or long walks, giving a kitten as a Christmas present may be a better fit. Be mindful of the circumstances of the person and adjust the breed or species to what he or she can handle.  
• Temperament: As much as you want to consider the needs and interests of the recipient, keep the pet’s well-being in mind as well. Give adequate time for the animal to prepare for its new environment and feel calm with strangers.

When you consider the above factors and plan accordingly, bringing a new pet into your family can be a wonderful idea –  and can bring much joy to both the people and the pets!

Kent and Gwen Meyer are the owners of Meyer’s Tails Up Farm in Belvidere,  Meyer’s Canine Colony in Roscoe, and Meyer’s Animal House in DeForest, Wisconsin are available for expert subject matter interviews and also their company websites are  www.meyerstailsupfarm.com, www.meyersanimalhouse.com or www.meyerscaninecolony.com.  For 30 years, the Meyer family has been known for providing luxury lodging, grooming, doggie daycare, and expert behavior training obedience classes for dogs and cats in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.