Looking to adopt a pet as a gift?  Purchase a Pet Helpers Gift Certificate instead!

Charleston, Sc - Adding a pet to the family is a serious, long-term commitment. It's a decision that needs input from everyone who would be involved in caring for the animal.

There are many questions that need to be considered thoughtfully: What type of animal would have a personality most compatible with a person or family? Who would be the primary caregiver of the pet? How much will it cost to feed and provide veterinary care? Who would look after the animal during trips? Could someone be allergic to the pet? It is extremely important that the primary pet caregiver—whether it's you, a friend or loved one—is 100% involved in the adoption process.

Instead of buying a puppy or kitten as a gift, consider giving a loved one a Pet Helpers “gift certificate” instead.  This not only promotes responsible adoption, but also gives your loved one a chance to make their own personal connection with the animal.

Shelters too often bear the brunt of these unexpected gift decisions. If the recipient decides the pet is not that cute anymore, too much work, or they just weren't ready for the responsibility, it is often the local shelter that takes these animals back.

Carol Linville, Pet Helpers Founder/Presidents states, "We need to remember that pets can't simply be returned or discarded like a broken toy. And that if you’re adopting an animal as a gift, you have to look at every issue that may occur; moving, allergies, medical cost and training."

If you’re looking for that purebred pup and you think you can only get it from a breeder…think again.   Ten percent of Pet Helpers’ pups are purebreeds, and there are millions of healthy mixed breed animals currently awaiting good homes, too. Pet Helpers adoption fees include your animal being spayed or neutered, up-to-date with vaccinations and micro chipped.

So if you’re still thinking about adopting as a gift.  A Pet Helpers Gift Certificate may be the best gift you give your family this holiday season.

For more information call 795-1110 or visit www.pethelpers.org.