People making lists, buying special gifts
Taking time to be kind to one and all
It's that time of year when good friends are near
And you wish you could give more than just presents from a store
For many people, the Christmas season is the best time of the year. It’s a time filled with love, as we receive overflowing gifts from family and friends, and the collective spirit of celebration builds anticipation for the big day. One of the most enchanting aspects of the season is the tradition of gift-giving, which traces its roots to ancient pagan rituals- where the three magi or wise men presented gifts to the newborn Jesus as an act of deep respect and recognition of his significance.
Whether big or small, practical or sentimental, gifting is a cherished tradition across cultures, strengthening our connections and reaffirming relationships we share with our loved ones. In the process, we not only bring happiness to others but also experience it ourselves. When we care deeply for someone, we often seek to express that love through gifts that reflect or even surpass the emotions we feel. One popular choice is gifting a pet, but is this always a good idea?
Though not a Christmas gift, I have personal experience with giving dogs as presents- one for a birthday, and the other spontaneously, because a dog needed a home. The first experience went well because the recipient genuinely wanted a pet and had specifically asked me to get her one. She had always dreamed of having a dog and was fully prepared to take on the responsibilities of pet ownership. However, the second situation was different. A stray dog needed a home and I instantly thought of a friend who had the space to care for it. Unfortunately, I didn’t realize at the time that my friend wasn’t truly ready for the commitment involved in caring for a pet. Whenever I visited them, the dog was often left outside to wander into neighbors’ yards. Eventually, the dog wandered off and never returned. This experience taught me that it’s not just about having the space or means to own a pet- it’s about ensuring the compatibility between the pet and the owner, and knowing the recipient fully understands the lifelong commitment that comes with caring for a living being.
Fact is, after the holidays, many animal shelters experience an increase in pet surrenders due to animals being given as gifts. Worse, some are neglected, left to roam freely, and eventually become strays. Once the holiday excitement fades and reality sinks in, owners realize they can't commit the time and effort required for proper care and training. The Animal Kingdom Foundation (AFK) revealed that their organization has rescued many dogs and cats abandoned by owners who, after the excitement of receiving a gift wore off, saw their pets as burdens. Many pets, those gifted or purchased on impulse, end up neglected and left to roam the dangerous streets. The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) expressed concerns that animal homelessness in the Philippines has reached a crisis level, with strays struggling to survive on the streets. Tragically, many impounded animals are euthanized each month in municipal pounds due to overcrowding and the limited resources at both public and private shelters.
A pet is not just a gift; it’s a living, breathing being with emotions, needs, and its own unique personality. Pets require continuous care, attention and love. They aren’t toys to be momentarily enjoyed during the holidays and then forgotten. They require commitment, consistency, and responsibility- things that should be fully understood and not be taken lightly.
So before rushing to purchase or adopt a pet to place under the Christmas tree, remember that a pet is a commitment that goes far beyond the holiday season. It’s not just about giving something cute and cuddly; it’s about understanding the responsibility that comes with providing a loving home for a living creature. If you’re confident that the recipient is ready to be a pet parent, then go ahead- the companionship could be the best gift they could ever receive. But if you’re unsure, stick to the basics and give something the person really needs or something that reminds you of them. You don’t need to give something grand to express your love- sometimes, the most meaningful gifts are as simple as a heartfelt letter or even your time and presence.
As you make your gift lists this holiday season, think carefully: a pet might make an adorable surprise, but the true gift is in the lifelong responsibility you’re willing to provide. Thus, if you present a pet to someone who is actually ready to be a pet parent, then you are not just giving a gift to a person, you are also giving a gift to a pet; a love that they will share throughout their journey as a companion.
Would be so happy if you would bring
Him love on Christmas Day
No greater gift is there than love…
REFERENCES:
Shelters Full of 'Present' Animals After the Holidays | PETA
'Pets are not gifts': Why animal welfare orgs discourage pets as gifts this Christmas
Solon seeks to address rising cases of animal abandonment | Philippine News Agency
