Puppies and kittens want a Merry Christmas too
Thinking about buying a puppy or kitten as a special gift for someone this Christmas?
Wingecarribee Shire Council is reminding potential buyers of their responsibilities.
“A combination of unwanted Christmas gifts and some owners dumping their pets prior to going on holidays unfortunately means January and February are our busiest months of the year,” said Alice Thompson, Wingecarribee Animal Shelter Manager. “It’s when we record our highest intake of abandoned dogs and cats.”
“We ask that before you commit to buying a pet as a gift, make sure you or the recipient has the ability to responsibly care for the animal for its entire life.
“It’s important to remember that all cute puppies and cuddly kittens eventually grow up and require years of love and affection,” Ms Thompson said.
“Apart from care and affection, potential owners should also factor in the financial cost of looking after a pet.
“However, should you have considered all these elements and have decided you or the recipient is prepared to care for a four-legged friend, we encourage residents to consider the Wingecarribee Animal Shelter, as we always have dogs and cats looking for a new home,” Ms Thompson said.
New Year’s Eve fireworks celebrations can also distress animals and owners are reminded to secure their pets prior to any festivities and ensure their pets are wearing a collar and ID tag and their microchip details are up to date.
For more information contact the Wingecarribee Animal Shelter located at Council’s Resource Recovery Centre on the corner of Bowman Road and Berrima Road, Moss Vale on phone 4868 1520.
The Shelter is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm and weekends from 10am to 12 noon. The Shelter is closed on public holidays.
“Remember, a pet is for life – not just for Christmas,” Ms Thompson concluded.