Show of Hands

A toy version with a note saying lets go get a *insert type of pet* take the family and go get it together. Less stress on the animal & family gets full input in selecting new pet better for everyone involved

Great idea!!

I would love a pet as a surprise present.

Most people don't buy presents they don't think the recipient would want.

Mississippi is backwards...

I like that perspective, Annie! I'll think as little dogs from now on. I had no idea rats could live that long. I'm pretty sure mice don't - 3 to something less than 4 years in the best of circumstances, I think.

This completely depends on the individual that you're giving the gift to!

What are u talking about? Adoptions from are the most humane thing we can do for animals. 25% in shelters are purebreds, and if u support pet stores instead of shelters, know that they derive from mills where there are sick abuses animals used for money and reproduction.

Depends. If the recipient wanted one or doesn't mind another then yes. If the recipient never expressed it then its better to be safe. It would suck if the pet couldn't get cared for..especially if they died.

Pets r the best! I would love a dog, cat, ect. for Christmas!

Some rats are nicer than others.

Only if it is from parents to their own kids

I've kept pet rats for about a decade & think they make wonderful pets! They aren't as loyal, doting or even useful as dogs, but they're still fantastic pets. So, I wouldn't see this comment in as negative of a light as some.
Though, I might be more apt to say that pet rats are like little dogs.

Yes, but in a note.... And the (kids) find one right for them. Guinea-pig.... They are stoked to find one at shelter!!!

It is if you wanted a pet.

Well then we won't surprise YOU with one. But surely you're aware that not everyone shares that opinion.

These things cannot be done on the spur of the moment.

As a surprise present, absolutely not. Not even as a surprise to the kids, but not to the parents. Any pet, from a fish, to a rabbit, to a dog, to a horse requires research, preparation, and simply getting to know the individual animal you will be adopting/buying...

Cats suck.

Truly, bs. I learned just last night that the lifespan of a Great Dane is 6-12 years. Six years is less than a human childhood. If you got a Great Dane when your kid was, say, 4, they could lose it to "old age" when they (the kid) was 10. It's hard enough for many *adults* to lose pets.

Just don't give it to breedlove. For the parrot's sake, as well as his/hers.

What's the difference between a cat and a dog, as a surprise Christmas gift?

Uh, you mean "mammals"? Fish and spiders ARE animals.

Only if its from parents to kids.

One year, Santa gave each of my 2 kids a cocker spaniel and it was their best Christmas ever!
Other than a parent giving to their child, I don't think giving a pet is a good idea.

Non needy pets(fish or spiders) sure, but not animals. Dogs and cats are 10 year+ commitments that need love, care, and attention. They are not gifts for a 5 year old

Depends on the pet. A puppy, yes. a cat, hell no.

No because pets have to be truly desired and planned for. Too many surprise pets end up in shelters! Adopt don't shop!

They'll be surprised alright. "Oh wow, a snake....


... I love it...



Did you keep the receipt?

Why wouldn't it be a good gift???

Money is not a good gift, but an acceptable one.

????????

Not unless it is for a child whose parents are prepared to have the pet

Depends if your traveling or older than no. But young at home then yes.

The novelty of a new pet seams to wear off quickly. I'd never consider a pet for any holiday gift.

Huh? Why not? Most people I know will buy ONLY shelter dogs or cats (or through rescue programs).

Never buy a shelter dog

Better idea would be for one 'ticket' to go to the shelter after the holidays to pick one of the many surprise pets that get abandoned.

Good gift, not a good surprise gift.

Surprise!!! I bought you a parrot!

In some circumstances it is okay, but usually not a good idea.

always!!!!!:)

Generally no, but it depends on the situation, as many have suggested. Plus a holiday is probably the wrong day entirely, especially for the pet. I like 1427's idea a LOT, esp. for kids. Give the idea of the pet on the holiday, discuss & research together, pick out later.

Then don't get one. Wrong pet for you. But some people really like them, and they're quite intelligent. You're right that they can be a longer-than-lifetime commitment, but so are children. One plans accordingly.

If a parent gets it for their child, yes. Assuming the parent has thought it through. If someone requests it, yes. Otherwise, no.

Singing - or pull a little brother (specifically, mine) out if the street. Or be a companion to a wounded vet.

The worst thing would be once of those parrots that live to like 120. It doesn't shut up and you have a lifetime of taking care of the stupid thing unless you can find someone dumb enough to take it

And I was pissed about the clothes my mom bought me... An animal would really not make me happy.

No one should be given a pet without their prior knowledge. Pets are a huge responsibility. I don't see a problem with parents getting their own child a pet as a surprise because they are ultimately responsible. However, no one else should give a pet as a "surprise" gift.

Exactly. They shouldn't be bought on impulse