Would you give a pet as a gift

[Miss Meow]

Never, unless I was prepared to take over the animal's care if the gift recipient didn't want it (I got Jasmine as a surprise for Shane, knowing full well that we'd both be caring for her).

Like Aly said, maybe you can take your parents to the shelter and see if they bond with any of the dogs and want to take on that commitment. I'm sure their lives will be enriched beyond belief with a furry friend in the house, but they need to be the ones to take the step in that direction.

[Ally Cat's Mommy]

I think you have all given good advice. I'll probably just tell my Mum & Dad we are going shopping,and drive them to the shelter instead!!!

They have had dogs before - Rags, a mixed bread X Jack Russell, who lived for 16 years (he was my childhood companion), and Fiona, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, who my Dad took to obediance lessons etc. The only times I have ever seen my Dad cry were the day his only child (ME) got married, and the days those two dogs went to the RB.

They have always said they intend to get another dog, but haven't quite gotten round to it. So I guess I will give them a "gentle push" in the right direction

Yes, but only in ONE case: NEVER as a surprise gift! The person reveiving it, must be fully aware of what he is accepting and fully ready to do anything for it!

[Kfamr]

I'm not sure a would, As I think people should adopt and 'buy' their own pets.

It's not like you'd go and adopt a baby for someone, which I think is just as big as adopting an animal into your home.

[anna_66]

Originally posted by aly
I would never get a pet as a gift for anyone, even someone who really wanted one.

What I would do is surprise them and drive them to the shelter and pay for the animal of their choice.

I'm a firm believer that someone should choose their own pet so that there is less chance the animal will end up returned in the shelter again, sad and confused.

Couldn't have said it better myself

[Pam]

I wouldn't do it. I think a person should be able to choose a pet themselves - one that "speaks" to them personally. That said, my Trevor came to me in a strange way. He was bought by my son's friend "as a gift" for his grandmom whose cat had just died. She didn't want him (imagine that!) because she said she was not ready to have another cat at that time. My son, who was with his friend at the time, decided that rather than return Trevor to the pet shop, he'd bring him home to me (at that time I was a strict 'dog only' person! ) It was the best thing he could have done, for me as well as Trevor, but I think this was probably an exception.