FAIRPORT, N.Y. -- Getting a new pet for the holidays can be a gift that just keeps on giving and taking, all year long.
While the Humane Society of Greater Rochester reports an increase in pet adoption during the holiday season, encouraged in part by free adoption drives, they say it's important to consider who will be caring for the pet once it is adopted.
Organizers at the Society say pets given as gifts during the holiday season often remain at their adopted home, but considerations must be taken for the care of the pet, whether it is a cat or a dog, who will be cleaning up after it, giving it exercise and training.
Giving a pet as a gift can be a good method for parents to teach their children a sense of responsibility. Still, the Humane Society also recommends that they pay close attention to the care provided, and step in if need be.
"It's always possible to have a pet. You have to work for it, and you want to do your homework, and that’s what we're here for, to make sure you have all the information you need to make an educated decision to decide whether or not a pet is right,” said Gillian Hargrave, vice president of Lollypop Farm. “And for some people it's not. Or perhaps they want a dog, but maybe a cat is a better choice, and we're happy to walk people through that, and what to expect."
Lollypop Farm offers a variety of services to help people deal with any animal behavioral problems. They include training classes, an in-home behavior visitation team, and even a free pet behavior hot line called "Pet Peeves."