Glenfield Road Animal Shelter reminds Christmas shoppers pets are not a novelty

Giving a pet as a Christmas gift can end in the animal becoming neglected or surrendered if the receiver isn't prepared for the responsibility.

Animal welfare officer at Glenfield Road Animal Shelter, Keli Stephens, said the idea does not have to be ruled out altogether, but caution must be taken.

"We always say that when you do buy an animal as a gift that the person who is receiving it knows," she said.

"Obviously it ruins the surprise but you do want them to know what they will be getting into, and that they could have this animal for up to 20 years so they need to commit to that."

It doesn't have to end in negative consequences if the individual is ready to take on the new family member, according to Miss Stephens.

"It can actually be good so long as they know what they're getting, and assuming the animals are coming from the right place," she said. Miss Stephens encouraged people to adopt, not shop.

"If you are thinking of getting someone a pet for Christmas, we do encourage you to adopt from places like us or a rescue shelter, particularly because they do get desexed for you so we don't end up with unwanted litters," she said.

"We're actually doing alright at the moment numbers wise, people are actively looking here for a pet to adopt."

Miss Stephens also reminded people to ensure their pet is microchipped in case the animal gets lost while the family is away.