A Moment With Mel…..Pets As Presents

I hate to go off on a rant since it's the time of the year to be jolly, and full of holiday cheer but.....I need to mention something that's been bothering me

for a few days.

Christmas is the time of the year when many parents will get their children pets as presents. Pets make a great gift! But pets require lots of work, love, care, and attention. Every year after the holidays, people drop of pets at shelters because they "didn't realize" they would require effort, or because their children tired of the animal. Not cool.

If you've been considering getting an animal as a Christmas gift, please be aware that they ARE work. Also be aware that there's a good chance that your child won't take full responsibility in regard to the care of the animal. As a parent, you need to be ready and willing to help feed, love, walk, and care for the animal.

Pets can also be expensive. Visits to the vet aren't cheap. Parents need to take into account the cost of a pet before bringing a new addition into the family.

And if you live in an apartment complex or in a townhome, PLEASE clean up after your pet. VERY few pet owners that live in my apartment complex clean up after their animal, and it makes me NUTS!

If you're serious about adding a pet to your family, here is info on The Humane Society of Charlotte. Please adopt, don't shop!