Don't buy or adopt pets as gifts this Christmas says Tottenham Tory 17/10/03

Tottenham Conservatives are backing animal organisations which are asking people to refrain from purchasing or adopting pets as gifts this Christmas.

Justin Hinchcliffe, Deputy Chairman of Tottenham Conservatives, explained:

"Adopting an animal is an important and life-changing decision. Important questions need to be answered. Do you have the time, money, and energy required to welcome a pet into your life? What kind of pet bests suits you and your lifestyle? Are you prepared to commit to your animal’s long-term care? Dogs can live 15, even 20 years. Other animals such as parrots can live 50 to 80 years. Remember, that adopting a pet should be for life. Do you have space in your house/apartment to meet your new pet’s needs? Does your landlord, if you have one, allow pets? Haringey Council has banned animals from some of its properties.

“Springing a puppy, kitten or other animal on someone as a gift is simply unfair—unfair to the person and unfair to the animal. As living, breathing beings, animals deserve better than to be treated like just another box of chocolates or basket of fruit.”

Animal welfare groups, including the R.S.P.C.A, say that whilst the idea of putting a puppy or kitten under the Christmas tree may sound appealing, it is important to remember that quite a number of these animals will end up crowding animal shelters across London.

Anyone wishing, having given the matter serious consideration, to become a pet-owner, should consider adopting. The Wood Green Animal Shelter can be contacted on 020 8888 2351 and the R.S.P.C.A has a national number to call - 0845 555 999.

ENDS.