If you wish to give the gift of a cat or dog for Christmas, give a gift coupon you make attached to a stuffed animal or an animal toy. Wait until after the holidays to get the new pet, and consider shelter or rescue animals FIRST.
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Considering buying little Billy a new pet as a gift? Think again. Pets are the worst gifts to receive - especially for children. Unfortunately, many parents think their children can take care of a pet on their own. However, many children lack the responsibility and attention span for a pet.
The old saying goes "Pets are for life, not for Christmas". If you are planning on getting or giving a pet as a gift, make sure to take into account all the fees and time commitments that are associated with feeding, training and providing medical care for the pet.