I adopted a dog four Christmas Eves ago. It was my beloved Gracie, who I met while handing out toys and treats at the local shelter. I took one look at her sweet little face, felt her burrow into my lap, and it was all over. She was home.
If I’d listened to the many warnings issued by shelters, pet writers, and veterinarians, I wouldn’t have done it. We get told over and over that the holidays are a bad time to adopt a pet because families are too busy with the festivities to being a new pet into the home, or because it somehow creates an association with consumerism and disposable pets.
For some families, the holidays are the perfect time to adopt a pet because adults may have time off work. Not everyone has a huge family and throws big holiday bashes, either, so the holidays can be quiet time just perfect for getting to know the new family member.
I also have faith that most families can figure out a way to make things work even if they are busy during the holiday season.
There’s no one-size-fits-all time to adopt a pet. If you think it through and a Christmas Eve adoption seems perfect for you and your new pet, I say go for it. I’m eternally grateful I did – and after two years in the shelter, I’m thinking Gracie would agree!
