Year after year, kittens and puppies are two of the most popular things that many children put on their gift wish lists. With Christmas coming up, it is almost guaranteed that a pet will be top of your child’s wish list this year.
After months of pestering, you have finally given in to their badgering and are planning to get them an adorable little puppy or kitten for Christmas – woohoo! But aside from letting your child pick the perfect name, which our database of good dog names and cat names can help them with, what else do you need to take into consideration?
A dog is for life, not just for Christmas
Above all else, it is vitally important to keep in mind the old saying that a dog is for life, not just for Christmas.
Before you commit to anything, think long and hard about whether you can realistically adopt a pet. Pets, especially young puppies and kittens, can be very hard work and will require a lot of care and attention, particularly in the first year.
Check out our Puppy Guide which is packed with information about caring for your new puppy from Day One. If you aren’t entirely convinced that you will be able to provide this level of care, you may want to reconsider your decision.
It is essential to do plenty of research before adopting your new pet. Our Breed Selector tool is a fun and fast way to find out the ten best breeds for you, your family, your home and your lifestyle.
The importance of good dog names
So, now you’re clued up about the responsibilities involved and know which breed to buy, what comes next?
Decide whether you want to buy a puppy from a specialist breeder or would prefer to adopt a dog in need from a rehoming shelter or charity. Again, there are benefits and drawbacks to each, but ultimately it is a personal decision that only you will be able to make.
Before you bring your precious new family member home, don’t forget to stock up on all the food and necessary supplies that your new pet will need prior to their arrival!
Finally, your new pet is all ready to meet their new owner on Christmas morning. Now it’s time for the fun part – using our extensive database of good dog names to let your child find the perfect name for the newest member of your family.
Make sure that your dog is sitting waiting, all ready to surprise your child when they come bounding down the stairs on Christmas morning, and prepare to make their Christmas one to remember!