On Three Kings Day, giving a pet is not the option

In the season of the Three Wise Men the option of giving a puppy (dog or cat) is very attractive because the tender looks and the endearing figure of a puppy can be the ideal image of love, however, if the responsibility of add one more member to the family, most of the puppies will end up abandoned on the street and without a family, a few months later.

Adrián Rodríguez-Granada, administrative director of the UNAM-Banfield Veterinary Hospital, explains that due to their physical characteristics, canine and feline puppies may seem like the perfect gift, but unfortunately they are usually a “surprise” gift and that surprise is where the danger lies of abandonment.

In this sense, the specialist suggests that before incorporating a pet into a family nucleus, a visit to the veterinarian should be made and have an extensive conversation with him as this specialist can guide the future owner on which is the most suitable animal for the capacities. economic, social and time available of the future owner. When this does not happen, the risk is great because perhaps whoever receives this “surprise” is not clear about the responsibility and commitment that one more life in charge means or is simply not convinced or convinced of wanting to take over the tasks that having to do a pet in your home and in your life.

“We are talking from an action as simple and basic as providing him his food two or three times a day – depending on the case – to providing him with particular attention such as a special bath for certain breeds of puppies.”

He adds that giving a living being represents much more than a few minutes. “Including a pet in family life represents a commitment of at least 10 years of coexistence, attention and a lot of love. Unfortunately, when the pet comes home, and it was not a consensual decision with all members of the family, there may be problems of abandonment. So many dogs and cats can end up on the street without being sterilized and suffering their new street condition ”.

Incorporating a pet into someone’s life is an ongoing commitment, there are also many costs associated with raising an animal, such as food and visits to the vet. Even the costs can also exceed expectations if the pet becomes ill and requires surgery. Hence, experts in the field call not to make a hasty decision when giving a life as a surprise on Three Kings Day.