Holiday animal adopters should carefully consider responsibility of pet ownership, says BVSPCA

GEORGETOWN, Del. – If you’re thinking about adopting a pet and gifting it to a loved one this holiday season, you might want to carefully consider the decision.

The Brandywine Valley SPCA says that around the holidays, they typically see a spike in adoptions at their shelters. While that’s a positive thing for many animals and prospective pet owners, the shelter says you should make sure you’re prepared.

Communications Manager for the Brandywine Valley SPCA Arryn Brucie says adopting a pet is a long-term commitment and responsibility. So, you should talk to your loved ones before you bring a new pet home.

“Having a conversation as a family ahead of time and just kind of taking things into account, as far as what your schedule is like day to day, what your financial situation is like. Just think about how much time and money you’re going to have for a pet, as well as what your home is like already,” said Brucie.

The Brandywine Valley SPCA says once you’ve decided to adopt a pet, the team at their shelters can help you find the best fit.

“Our team can really help you to make a match based on what’s going on in your home and your life. We have ‘getting to know you’ forms before adoptions go out so that we have a good idea of all of those kinds of things,” said Brucie.

Brucie adds the shelter can always use extra donations and helping hands around the holidays.

“It’s definitely a busier time of year in the shelter in general. We could always use help with volunteers and just general donations for the animals. We like to spoil them this time of year if they’re going to be in the shelter,” she said.

To find out more about adoption or how you can help the shelter, click here.