This is one of those times of year when kids most frequently ask for a puppy. (adults, too!) We as parents sometimes oblige and picture having that moment when our child wakes up Christmas mornign and runs down the stairs to find a beautiful puppy with a big red bow. Now I don’t want to tarnish anyones dreams, but I must ask that you reconsider buying that puppy at the pet store. I didn’t know or maybe I didn’t even think about it, but most of the time puppies found at pet stores are from puppy mills. For more information on how shopping in pet stores supports the puppy mill industry, please visit www.nopetstorepuppies.com. Why not visit your local ASPCA and see what furry friends are just waiting to have their Christmas dreams come true! Make your children a part of it. Take some time and teach them the responsibilities about being a pet owner. Ask them if they think they are ready to care for an animal. Animals teach children so much about responsibility and it also teaches them to care. You might want to also remind them that although a puppy is cute they do grow up to be dogs. Also puppies require more care and tolerance than an adult. Maybe, starting with an adult dog might be the right choice for your family. Talk about it.
For pet behavior tips and information on bringing new pets into the family, visit http://www.aspca.org/Home/Adoption/adoption-tips. It’s important that everyone in the family realizes the responsibilities involved in bringing a pet home. Although your child might have asked for a puppy, introducing the idea of adoption might interest them. Who wouldn’t want to take home an animal that has no home? The ASPCA is making it even easier this holiday season. Visit the ASPCA adoption Center at www.aspca.org/adopt and use the special code HappyHowlidays for 10% off the adoption fee. Welcome someone new to your family this year!
“I wrote this review while participating in a campaign for Mom Central Consulting on behalf of the ASPCA. I received a promotional item to thank me for taking the time to participate.”