'Think Very Carefully' Before Choosing Pets As Christmas Presents

A new campaign has been launched to urge people to "think very carefully" before choosing or gifting a pet this Christmas.

The Department of Agriculture, the Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has partnered with Northern Ireland Companion Animal Welfare Group (NICAWG) to highlight how hundreds of animals in Northern Ireland end up in rescue organisations every year following the festive season, when the novelty of receiving a pet for Christmas has worn off.

Launching the campaign, DAERA Minister, Andrew Muir, said: "Whilst I know people have good intentions getting a new pet for Christmas, unfortunately, if careful consideration has not been given as to the long-term implications and responsibility of owning a pet, many of these animals end up in rehoming organisations.

"Advice on how to care for a range of pets is available on NI Direct and prospective owners should first make themselves aware of the responsibilities that come with properly caring for an animal before deciding if they can fulfil its needs."

Minister Muir added: "I would also remind people of the invaluable work that animal welfare establishments represented in NICAWG undertake and would ask the public once they have given careful consideration to owning a pet, to consider adopting from Animal Welfare and Rehoming organisations rather than going out to buy a pet. Animal welfare establishments are struggling with the huge number of unwanted pets which have been surrendered to the charities, and rehoming means you can play your part in giving a pet its forever home." Nora Smith, Chairperson of NICAWG, stated on behalf of the Group: "During the festive season, as we plan our Christmas celebrations and gifts, it can be very tempting to welcome a pet to your family. Whilst we understand the intent behind this gesture, we are cautioning that pet ownership is a big decision and as such, animals should not be given as surprises or exchanged like a commodity on Christmas Day.

"Pets are a commitment. Often people do not realise how big a commitment they are. They do not belong under a Christmas tree. Undoubtedly, pets can have such a wonderful impact on our lives through much love and companionship. But before any decisions are made, we are urging the public to give careful consideration to what responsible pet ownership involves and if they can fulfil their pet's needs and give them a happy and healthy life.

"Therefore, our advice is wait until after the Christmas holidays have passed to provide the time and space required to welcome a new pet into your home. Please do your research in advance, to fully understand the commitment that is involved. There is potential with some of our organisations to reserve an animal before Christmas to be rehomed once all the festivities are over. Please do not buy a pet for Christmas. Your animal companion's love is a gift, but it is not just for Christmas. Sadly, every year, countless animals who were given as presents are abandoned after the festivities often just a few days into the new year."

Once careful consideration has been given to owning a pet, NICAWG and DAERA are encouraging prospective pet owners to adopt rather than buy as there are thousands of animals in Animal Welfare charities in desperate need of a second chance.