Thinking of gifting someone a pet this holiday season? Here's what you need to know

Kendall Little, Naples Daily News
Updated ·3 min read

Has your child or significant other been asking for a pet for Christmas? Collier County Domestic Animal Services has plenty of dogs and cats ready for adoption.

But there's some factors to consider before you adopt an animal this holiday season.

Here's what you need to know about adopting an animal before you head to the shelter.

Adopting an animal is a years-long commitment

Collier DAS says puppies and kittens are the most popular animals adopted during the holidays.

"Pets are a lifetime commitment and can live up to 20 years," a representative from Collier DAS said.

New owners must be prepared for the commitment before taking on the responsibility of another life. If your loved one isn't ready to care for an animal for decades, consider another gift.

Consider gifting an animal care kit

Consider gifting your loved one a complete kit for caring for a new animal. Then, you can pick out a new pet together.

The American Humane suggests filling a box or basket with toys, a collar, leash, food, treats, and a gift certificate to cover adoption fees at a shelter. Make an event of going to the shelter to play with the animals and see which one your loved one clicks with.

There's a possibility if you pick a pet for your loved one without them present, the animal and their new owner may not get along.

More: Kitten crisis: Lee, Collier county shelters make plea for adoptions. What to know

Select an animal that you're prepared to care for

Different animals require different levels of care. Make sure to research the animal you're considering adopting ahead of time to see what kind of attention, supplies, and food it needs.

"Although adopting a pet under the right circumstances can be rewarding, we encourage those who are thinking of adopting a pet to analyze their current lifestyle and determine if they can provide time, space, and a healthy living environment for the animal," a representative from Collier DAS said.

Puppies require constant care and attention according to ASPCA. You'll have to train them, make sure they're healthy, and ensure they can exercise. Even as they grow up, certain dogs need space to run and most dogs need to be walked.

Kittens need to be litter trained and given the appropriate type of food until they reach a certain age. While cats are more independent, you still have to make sure your home is safe for them to be in.

More exotic pets like turtles, geckos, snakes, and spiders require special care. Make sure you read about what they need before making the commitment.

Ready to adopt? Here's where to go

  • Collier County Domestic Animal Services- Monday through Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.- 7610 Davis Blvd.

  • Humane Society of Naples- Tuesday through Sunday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.- 370 Airport-Pulling Rd. N.

  • Brooke's Legacy Animal Rescue- Contact about adoptable animals in foster homes- info@brookeslegacyanimalrescue.org

  • Purradise Gardens (formerly Naples Cat Alliance)- Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at PetSmart - PetSmart: 2415 Tarpon Bay Blvd. #2

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: What to know before adopting an animal this holiday season