CONCORD, N.C. -- Many people like to gift pets for the holidays, but it's not always the best idea.

"A lot of times when a puppy is adopted right before Christmas people will forget the work involved," Executive Director of the Humane Society of Concord and Greater Cabarrus County Judy Sim said. "So after they have a couple of days to think about it, after the excitement of Christmas, then they come back."

Caleen is one puppy at the shelter who was brought back after being adopted on Christmas Eve. Sims said he is the second animal to be brought back since Christmas Eve, but they expect more.

Sims also says that the largest influx of animals comes right after the holidays.

Instead of physically gifting an animal, Sims recommends wrapping a box filled with animal food and toys. Then, tell the person you are gifting it to that you will all go to the shelter together to pick out the animal.

Fostering a dog for a short time is another option.

Dog walker Dione Turner is doing exactly that.

"It helps to just to kind of see the responsibility associated with the day in and day out of a dog, before you make the final commitment," Turner said.

Bottom line, Sims says, if others live in your household, a pet should not be a surprise to anyone.

"We want people to educate their children that it is not just a gift, it is a life-long commitment," Sims said.

For more information on the Humane Society of Concord and Greater Cabarrus County click here.