Christmas is coming! Some families find it tempting to get a dog or cat (or puppy or kitten) this time of year. If you're planning on doing so, please, stop and wait!

• Is everyone in your family ready for another pet?
• Have you considered what sort of pet is a good match? Are you active, and outdoors a lot? While an active dog will be fun, will you be able to take that dog out daily? 
• Do you like needy dogs? What if this needy dog bites someone?
• Think your cat needs a friend, but your cat thinks otherwise?

The holidays are tough on the shelters; many pets are turned in. Unfortunately, after the holidays are tougher; dogs and cats purchased from pet stores end up at the shelters when, a few months later, it turns out that it just wasn't a good idea.

Want a pet for the holidays? No surprises. Talk with your family, see what everyone wants. If the children promise to take care of feedings and walking, be sure that you are ready to pick up when they slack off. Start visiting the shelter NOW, with the entire family, so that everyone can interact with the dogs and cats, and find the perfect match.   Don't surprise your family with a pet; too often this doesn't work as planned. Instead, work now on the perfect match, so that the new year starts on the right foot with your new furry buddy.