Don’t let your Christmas gift come back to bite you

Think a cute, cuddly puppy would make a lovely Christmas gift? Cute, cuddly puppies grow into cute, cuddly dogs that need regular exercise, training, healthcare and a lot of love.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said Christmas shoppers should think carefully before buying a pet for someone as a present.

“We don’t recommend giving animals as gifts unless the recipient has the resources, time and inclination to care for the pet its whole life,” Minister Furner said.

“The thrill of receiving a pet as a Christmas gift can quickly wear off when the new owner faces up to the reality of caring for an animal full-time.

“It can be an expensive exercise to care for an animal as costs include food, worming, annual health checks, veterinarian bills, training, boarding, toys and bedding.

“People also need to take into consideration the upfront costs such as vaccinations and desexing.”

Before you choose to spread festive cheer with a new furry friend, consider:

Will they have enough time to walk, feed and play with the animal each day?

• Can they afford to care for the animal for the next 15 years?
• Have you checked that they are allowed to keep a pet in their home?
• Do they have all the equipment they’ll need like bedding, a lead, collar, food and water bowls?
• Do they have a veterinary clinic in their area?
• Do they know about desexing, registration and preventative health care?
• Does the pup has a valid breeder supply number?

To find out more about your duty of care for animals, go to business.qld.gov.au or call 13 25 23.

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ENDS

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