pets as holiday gifts.

mathias-erhart, Flickr Is it ever a good idea to give a kitten or puppy as a holiday gift? Most experts wave the red flag at the idea of holiday pets, but if the animal in question has been a long-considered family addition, it isn't always a bad idea. Here are some things to keep in mind when thinking of gifting a new pet this month. The Wrong Way "Never surprise anyone with a pet as a gift. It's not an inanimate object. It's a living, breathing being that's going to depend on [that person] for food, water, exercise and attention -- for at least 15 years," says Sandra DeFeo, director at the Humane Society in New York City. "Every year, people get a kitten or a puppy for someone as a ...

Corbis If someone on your list is wishing for a pet this holiday season, here are some tips and things to consider to make sure that everyone -- including the new animal -- is jolly. Sherry Woodard is resident animal behavior consultant for Best Friends Animal Society, an animal advocacy group that also runs an animal sanctuary, as featured on the National Geographic show, "Dogtown." She offers some smart advice on making this important decision. Is a pet the right gift? Owning a pet is one of the most rewarding things life can offer and it's the start of a friendship that will last for years, but pets also come with serious responsibilities and a commitment to their health and happiness. ...