It happens every time the holidays arrive: people decide to give pets. But is it a wise choice? When I was in third grade, I bullied my parents into letting me have a pet. They finally gave in after months of scolding and there it was one day, my holiday gift, “Tiger.” He really was “my cat” and I even took him with me when I moved out of the dorm in college, but you can be sure my parents were responsible for much of the care from when I was 7 until I turned 19..

Tiger lived with me for 7 more years after college, but not all gifted pets have the same happy story. Owning a pet is an important commitment and, like any important decision, it is wise to consider all factors before proceeding. If you are considering gifting a pet, here are some suggestions to help you avoid problems:

1) Make sure the person wants a pet

A pet should never be given as an “unexpected” gift to someone; They should have already made the decision that they want a pet and, more importantly, that they have the means to care for it properly. The holidays are not an ideal time to have a pet for a number of reasons: People are generally too busy to properly introduce a new pet into their home while trying to keep up with all the demands of the season. With parties to attend, guests, etc., a new pet can easily get lost in the confusion or worse, neglected.

A better option is to give a coupon, photo, or certificate that can be handed out and opened at the time of gift, then arrangements can be made for the pet to arrive after the holidays have passed.

2) A pet should NOT be an impulse purchase

Don’t buy a pet on impulse from a mall pet store. They may look adorable and need a home, but unfortunately, these pets are generally stressed, immunosuppressed, and often come from mass breeders (puppy mills) with questionable breeding practices.

If you are going to have a pet, it is much better to plan ahead and take the time to research the animal of your choice. For a dog, find a responsible breeder or, better yet, find a shelter or rescue group. I strongly believe in rescuing animals from a shelter or one of the many responsible pet rescue groups.

3) Consider raising or keeping pets other than cats and dogs

Animal rescues are always looking for responsible individuals to provide short-term or long-term pet foster homes until they can find a “forever home” for them. There are also many options besides cats and dogs, especially if the pet is for a child. Fish, turtles, mice, and guinea pigs are great, easy, and inexpensive options that kids can enjoy and love without creating a huge impact on their daily routine.

4) If the addition of a pet is unavoidable, be sure to prepare your home

Puppies, and especially kittens, are very curious, so it is essential that your home is pet-proof. Lock up all household chemicals, keep potentially poisonous indoor plants or fragile objects out of reach, tie up electrical cords, and keep doors closed. Many Christmas decorations like tinsel, mistletoe, wrapping paper, and table decorations can be problematic, while certain foods, like chocolate and raisins, can be lethal to your pet.

Establish an area in the house where your pet can relax and sleep peacefully. It is much easier for your pet if you can consistently provide a “safe haven” as it settles into its new home.

5) You need more than food and bowls

There’s a full list of things you’ll need, so stock up at the pet store before your newest addition arrives. For example, having fish requires a variety of cleaning and water treatment supplies, as well as chemicals and spare parts. Small, furry pets like gerbils and hamsters need nesting material and other “cage furniture” to provide a rich environment for them. Dogs and cats need toys, bedding, collars, tags, grooming accessories, and a tracking chip.

Choose a veterinarian and also locate the closest emergency veterinary hospital that is open 24/7. All new puppies and kittens need a series of shots. Make sure you get any records that contain your pet’s history; this will help the vet determine exactly what vaccinations are needed.

A pet can be a wonderful addition to your home. Since I begged my parents for that first cat almost fifty years ago, I have had animals in my life ever since. As a trainer, I have seen lives change as thousands of pet owners experience the love and joy that comes from owning an animal. However, I have also seen many situations where a pet gifted or bought on impulse does not turn out to be a benefit, quite the opposite. If you’re giving someone a new pet this year for the holidays, I think it’s best for everyone involved when a pet is an addition planned by a willing and prepared owner.