Old dogs being discarded to make space for Christmas pups? The perils of pets as presents. Podcast by Pete the Vet on Newstalk’s Pat Kenny Show

Pets as presents – here’s why not. Listen to the podcast  by clicking on the play button below.

There are three clear reasons:

  1. Animals are sentient creatures and should never be given as gifts.
  2. Christmas time is just a bad time of year for a new animal to arrive.
  3. We all know how difficult it can be to choose the right Christmas present for a loved one: pets are guaranteed to raise a smile, which is why it’s tempting to buy one, however wrong it may be. Just don’t do it.

Here’s an idea: Santa Claus could bring presents like a dog bed, some dog toys, and other doggy bits and pieces. Your family will get the message about what’s coming soon. Then in the days or weeks after Christmas, when the seasonal madness has calmed down, you can collect the new arrival from the rescue centre or breeder.  In January, there are many animals ready to be rehomed.

By the way, please donate to your local animal charity at this time of year – they need all the help they can get. Our vet clinic at Brayvet has an annual “give a stray dog Xmas dinner” drive, asking pet owners to donate dog food or funds which we pass on to local animal charities who need support.

 

Questions from listeners about pets

The following questions were asked by listeners:

  1. Why does my dog like eating deer poo?
  2. Is my nine year old daughter too young to volunteer at a rescue centre?
  3. My twelve year old Boxer had a seizure, went to vet and is now on a range of medication. She seems fine but is gradually deteriorating. What can I do?
  4. My neutered male German Shepherd still mates with female German Shepherd. What should I do?
  5. One of my elderly cats died, and we took in two new kittens, but my remaining elderly cat does not like them. How can I make them get on together?
  6. What to do about cats climbing in Christmas trees?

To find out the answers to these questions, listen to the podcast by clicking on the play button below.

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Listen to the podcast:

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