Buying A Pet As Valentine's Gift? Don't
The StraitsTimes, 12 Feb 2003

By Deirdre Moss

As Valentine's Day approaches, various media have been promoting the idea of giving your loved one a pet for the occasion. In one instance, it was 'buy one and get one free'.

The SPCA strongly advises against the advertising of pets as presents on any occasion because it promotes spur-of-the-moment buying of a live animal, without due consideration of the consequences when the receiving party is not prepared for the responsibilities involved.

In SPCA's experience with impulse buyers the novelty is sure to wear off and, when it does, the animal is the one that suffers.

It is a sad fact that in a consumer-oriented society, pets are easily acquired and discarded. Too many unwanted animals suffer from neglect and abuse before reaching the SPCA, and their lives end prematurely because they are part of a surplus.

It isn't a pretty picture we have painted, but one you should try to recall the next time you feel the urge to make a present of a pet.

DEIRDRE MOSS (MS)
Executive Officer
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals