Mabel the Rescue Dog

4 min read (Articles narrated by Mabel)

It is no secret that every kid dreams of having a puppy. They often beg their parents all year for a dog. Of course, a Christmas puppy might sound like an adorable idea, but puppies are a lot of work!

There’s a lot that goes into caring for a puppy and a lot of kids aren’t willing to do all that extra work. So, if you’re going to get a dog at all this holiday season, why not adopt to a rescue dog that will otherwise spend Christmas alone?

Why is a Puppy for Christmas a Bad Idea?

When giving a puppy as a gift, many people forget how much of a commitment a young puppy really is. Kids just get excited over the sight of an adorable puppy and don’t think much beyond that. Many people don’t think of the long-term consequences.

#1 – Puppies are Living Things, Not Just Presents

People will often put puppies in boxes just like they would with any other present and have kids open them. That can be very stressful for a young puppy, and they are so much more than just a present!

Most presents don’t need constant time and attention either, so many humans don’t consider this when gifting a puppy. They just think they’re a cute gift, and then they get frustrated when they realize how much work a puppy really is. Don’t ever give a living thing as a gift unless the family is completely prepared and ready to welcome a dog into their home.

#2 – Too Many Christmas Puppies End up in Shelters

Many puppies that are given as gifts for Christmas just end up at a shelter not long after. Once people realize how much work a puppy is, they often decide that it was a mistake. Or they decide they don’t want them anymore once they are full-grown.

People often forget that dogs can be unpredictable. It can take a lot of training, patience, and love to bond with and raise a well-behaved dog. Sadly, a lot of people just give up on their dog when things don’t go as planned. But a dog is a lifelong commitment, not just a one-time gift. You need to be prepared for your puppy to change as they grow.

#3 – A Dog Should Be a Planned Decision, Not a Surprise Present

Many families love to surprise their children with puppies. Sure, an adorable puppy is always exciting, but many people become less interested when they realize how much work it’s going to be.

If your family is planning to get a dog, always discuss it thoroughly ahead of time. You need to make sure you are willing to commit to this new family member, and you should have all supplies ready. A dog is not a last minute gift, but instead they are a family member that everyone should be prepared for.

#4 – Too Many Christmas Puppies Are From Puppy Mills

I know I talk about puppy mills a lot, but it is very important to Molly and I. Many families will pick up a puppy from a pet store for Christmas, and many of these puppies are from puppy mills. Therefore, not only are you purchasing a puppy that you might not be ready for, but you could also be supporting a horrible industry.

#5 – Puppies Are a Lot of Work!

People often choose a puppy over an adult dog because of how adorable they are. They get so absorbed in the puppy’s appearance that they forget how much more work a puppy is over a full-grown dog. You need to be willing to train your puppy and be patient with them. If you are not willing to commit a ton of time and effort to a young puppy, then you are making a mistake.

Why Are Rescue Dogs Better?

Of course, no dog should be brought home if a family isn’t ready for them. However, if you are sure that you are ready to bring a dog into your family, why not consider a rescue? Many rescues have been looking for a home for a while, so they would love to have a nice home to spend Christmas at.

Plus, even if you get your puppy from a responsible breeder, you are still bringing a new litter of dogs in this world. So, if you decide you don’t want that puppy, you’re just adding to the large number of dogs that are at shelters and rescues. Why not consider a dog that already needs a loving home instead of bringing a new one into this world?

Can’t Adopt? Consider Fostering!

Some families don’t have time for a young puppy or an older dog, and that’s understandable. If you still want to help out though, then there are ways. If you will be staying home for the holidays, you could consider fostering a dog during that time. No dog should be alone for Christmas, so why not open your home to a dog in need even if it’s just for a short period of time?

If you can’t adopt or foster, then donate or volunteer! Shelter and rescues appreciate all the help they can get. So, this Christmas, show rescue dogs that they matter. Spread the word and do everything you can to help them find a forever home as soon as possible!

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