"Puppies shouldn't be chosen as a last minute present to make children smile on Christmas
day, but that doesn't mean bringing one into the family as a Christmas present is careless,"
warns Dogs NSW spokesperson and veterinarian Dr Peter Higgins.

"So long as you consider what you want from a dog and choose the breed accordingly, they
can become very important members of the family," says Dr Higgins. “If not, then shelters and
pounds will be full of rejected ‘surprise’ pet presents by about mid January. The worst case
scenario is people often dump unwanted pets on the side of the road and drive off.”

Puppies are often chosen as spur of the moment presents to please children on Christmas day,
but the long-term consequences of dog ownership for the family are often not taken seriously.
Buying a dog as a family Christmas present is not irresponsible, but buying one as an impulsive
gift is, and can have serious consequences. The family's home and lifestyle must be carefully
considered and suitable breed chosen accordingly. Purebred dogs have many advantages
over crossbreeds, such as a more predictable temperament, and this makes choosing a dog
much easier.

"There are many different types of households, from young families with active kids, to elderly couples or share-houses, so each person has different demands on their time. By researching the breed that suits your lifestyle, you and your dog to be will have a much happier time together," explains Dr Higgins.

When future owners choose a purebred dog, there is far greater certainty about what they are getting. Their behaviour, health, lifespan, intelligence, and temperance are far more predictable, which means you can be certain that your chosen breed will fit into your lifestyle.

Young puppies are often chosen over fully-grown dogs being brought into the family during the
Christmas period, but take more time and money to raise. The costs of vaccinations, food,
training, and shelter represent a large financial burden that should be carefully considered with
the whole family.

"Christmas time is busy for everyone, with emotions often running too high for a pet to be
peacefully introduced into a household. It's much better to introduce it after the holiday period
to avoid your new puppy being overwhelmed. A pet is for life not just for Christmas.", exclaims
Dr Higgins.

For further information or interviews, please contact:             DOGS NSW is located at:
Dr Peter Higgins                                                                The Bill Spilstead Complex for Canine Affairs,
0410 67 63 65                                                                   44 Luddenham Road, Erskine Park NSW 2759
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it                                             This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it