The attitude must be well thought out so as not to have negative consequences for both the animal and the family
Animal abandonment is a crime, but despite this, Brazil breaks records every year. In 2023 around 4 million pets ended up on the streets, according to data from the Brazilian Association of the Pet Product Industry (ABINPET). The total number of abandoned dogs and cats in the country, according to the Animal Abandonment Index in Brazil, already exceeds 30 million.
The statistics have led to the birth of campaigns such as “Green December”, a month of awareness against animal abuse and abandonment during the Christmas and New Year holidays and the summer holidays. For veterinarian Ana Elisa Arruda Rocha, the topic also raises another important discussion: pet Is it a nice Christmas gift or not?
“Take a pet It’s a decision that requires responsibility, planning and love. Offering an animal as a gift, without the person being prepared for the necessary care, can have negative consequences for both the animal and the family”, warns the professor of the Veterinary Medicine course at UniCuritiba – Ânima Educação institution.
Care before the present
The possibility of giving as a gift to pet You don’t need to discard it, just plan it well. The fundamental thing, explains the veterinarian, is to know whether the person receiving the gift really wants an animal and whether he or she is capable of maintaining and caring for the new member of the family. “Before giving a gift childfor example, it is necessary to talk to the parents, who will have to pay for the care and costs”, underlines Ana Elisa Arruda Rocha.
The teacher also reminds that summer is a time of school holidays and travel, so if the family spends time away from home, they must plan to ensure that full attention is given with the pet. “Pets interfere with vacation plans, whether it’s choosing a destination pets or in looking for a caregiver for this period”, comments the vet.
Each animal is unique
According to Ana Elisa Arruda Rocha, some people take advantage of the end of the year to give gifts to friends or family who have lost their children. pets throughout the year. However, one animal does not replace another. “Many people who lose their pet want to get another one of the same color, the same breed, the same size. The point is that each pet It is unique and has its own personality. If the goal is to have a ‘copy,’ the person has a high chance of getting frustrated,” he says.
Therefore, even in these situations maximum attention is important. “Some animals are donated later in situations like this, so it is important to do the correct planning taking into account all these factors,” emphasizes the veterinarian.
Things to consider before giving a gift
Before considering a dog or a cat as a Christmas gift, the professor of Veterinary Medicine at UniCuritiba, Ana Elisa Arruda Rocha, draws attention to four essential aspects. Check!
1. Responsibility
Take care of one pet It’s a big responsibility. It involves adequate nutritionveterinary care, walks, training and lots of affection. This responsibility cannot be seen as a burden, but as a long-term commitment.
2. Emotional impact
Animals have emotions. If the recipient is not prepared or does not want the animal, the pet they may be neglected or even abandoned.
3. Costs
Having an animal involves costs for food, vaccines, medicines, toys, training and other treatments. It is important that the future guardian is aware of and is able to cover the costs.
4. Routines
THE routine of the family must be adapted to include the new member. You must have time to walk, play and care for the animal. In the case of year-end trips, plans need to be adjusted.
By Marlise Groth
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
