For those contemplating buying someone a pet as a gift this holiday season, the Humane Society is urging you to reconsider.
The responsibility of owning a pet can sometimes be a daunting task, and when someone is gifted a pet, the person receiving the animal may not be able to properly care for the animal.
President of the Board for the Parkland Humane Society Marie Rolph says when someone chooses a pet as a gift, there may not be a connection between the new owner and the animal.
"Part of it is because, a pet should pretty much pick its own owner. If someone is picking out a pet for someone else, there may not be a connection, and we find that, at the shelter, when families come in, the dog or cat actually does pick out the person they want to be with."
The Humane Society suggests if you really would like to buy someone a pet as a gift. don't surprise them, and bring them with you to look at the animals.