Acquiring a pet is a big decision. This article is going to focus on why NOT to give puppies as unexpected gifts, but the same considerations apply for any pet, including small ones that live in cages. We know, they sell them in the mall and there's all these cute little bowls and toys and clothes for them. Everyone loves a puppy - most are cute and friendly and amusing. When they pee on the carpet it's a tiny little spot and easy to clean up. You don't have to put it through college or buy it a car when it turns 18, but it's a long-term commitment to another living creature who will depend on you for all of its needs for its ENTIRE life. Whoa. Could probably stop right there, but I won't.
So you decide you're going to give your parent/significant other/spouse/friend a dog. Do they even want a dog? Do you know what breed would best suit their personality and lifestyle? Do they like to go on vacation? Are you going to take the dog for them when they do? How much time do they have to train a puppy? Housetrain in the middle of the winter? Go to puppy classes? Exercise the dog (one of the most important parts of dog's life and one that helps maintain healthy weight and good behavior)? Can they afford to buy a crate, bowls, toys, collars, leashes, and so forth? Can they afford veterinary care? - because contrary to what many pet sellers will tell you, they don't "have all their shots" when you get them at 8 weeks of age, and because that dog is going to need medical care for the rest of its life. What if the puppy isn't healthy?
We *LOVE* seeing new puppies here at SPAH - it's one of the best parts of our day. What we don't love is seeing people with a new responsibility they weren't prepared for and don't have time for. It isn't fair to them or the dog, even though most of the folks we are lucky to have as clients have a strong sense of responsibility and will stick with it regardless. Most of the time it does work out - puppies wiggle their way right into your heart and dog ownership is truly a joy most of the time.
So please - if you want to get your lady a nice gift for Valentine's Day, choose a diamond instead of a Dalmatian. When you do decide to get a dog, make sure everyone is ready for the commitment that's going to come with it - then have a great time!