Animal shelters ask families to think twice before giving pets for Christmas

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - A new puppy or kitten under the tree is something many kids dream of getting for Christmas. But, animal shelters often see a spike in surrendered pets in January and February when families realize their new animal doesn't fit with their family or lifestyle.

"It obviously upticks our intake, so we just want to make sure that everybody does their homework before they take on an animal, because there is so much involved with the animal," said Jeanne Keenan Director of Operations at Sangamon County Animal Control and Adoption Center. "It's a lifelong commitment for that animal."

Returning a pet does more than just bring the adoption center closer to capacity. It also pus a lot of stress on the animal, especially when animals were adopted as kittens or puppies. The transition to a large, loud space with a lot of other animals can be incredibly difficult.

"Being in here, we do as much as we can to make it a less stress environment, but the reality of it all is it is a stressful environment, especially when you're overloaded," said Keenan. "So it's harder to make sure that every animal is getting what they need to do and get out of the kennel as much as possible."

To try to combat the number of pets surrendered to the adoption center, they are launching a new program. You can now purchase a gift certificate. This allows the entire family to come and spend time with potential pets before bringing them home.

"When the animal can connect with the entire family in an area that they're already kind of comfortable with, instead of being introduced into an unfamiliar territory, that might be helpful, in the whole transition process," said James Schackmann, Chairman of the Public Health Committee for the Sangamon County Board. "This may release that tension in the household, if the entire family had an opportunity to to choose, what furry friend is best for them."

The gift certificates can be used for certain vaccinations, micro-chipping, and adoption fees.