Reasons Puppies Make Horrible Christmas Gifts
I can't say it any better than these folks.
See why experts in the field agree... it's never a good idea to give a puppy as a gift, despite the fact that it may seem like the best thing to do.
Here are a few heartfelt stories, revealing why Christmas puppies are never a good idea:
"The Christmas Puppy: Why You Shouldn't Get One" by Jon Katz
"No Christmas Puppies, Please" by Ruth Ginzberg
And the best reasons of all -- why NOT to get (or give) a puppy for Christmas -- are summarized here by Spadafori who spent the entire month of December last year summarizing why a Christmas puppy is a bad idea. (I counted 30+ reasons documented by Gina... I'd encourage you to start with Reason #1 and work your way back.)
This year, Gina even managed to convince Craig Newmark, the owner of Craigslist, to make it very difficult for puppy-millers and high-volume backyard breeders to sell on his site.
Exceptions To The Rule
If and only if the timing is such that the puppy you've had your eye on just so happens to be "ready" around Christmas time, then that's a whole 'nother story. (That's how it went for us.)
So long as you've done your research, and you trust that yours is a reliable breeder with an established history, then here are a few things you should know about Christmas or Hanukkah pet adoptions, as well as some special considerations for enjoying the holidays with your new pet.
that puppy with the ribbon on its head is sooooooooo cut
You've included two of my favorite authors - John Katz and Gina Spadafori. They always offer real-life examples along with their personal viewpoints - and it's true here as well. I agree - chrismas puppies are not a good idea!!