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12/2/12 10:39 P

I would not "gift" a puppy either, but it was my immediate family, and I was just the "helper" for the plan in progress. It was fun seeing how the plan unfolded. To this day, puppy is doing great . . . but . . . Sophie still does not like him!

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12/2/12 3:44 P

I feel exactly the same as you do Kitty. Jack was a December gift. We got him exactly 8 years ago tomorrow (December 3).

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12/1/12 11:05 P

I would not gift a puppy to anyone but myself or my immediate family.

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12/1/12 2:30 P

I agree with everyone that it would definitely not be a good "surprise" for anyone, unless you knew for sure they wanted that particular one. That being said, last year, Santa had me babysit a little one until he could be delivered on Christmas Eve. Other than being chaotic for Sophie - since he was a puppy full of energy and she was not interested in playing - it wasn't too bad. Oh . . . what memories . . . it was wild!!!

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12/1/12 8:15 A

I agree with BESCATS. Matching an owner with the right dog for them is very tricky business, best left up to the individual.

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12/1/12 8:02 A

Probably not. There are to many variables that go along with the love and care of any dog. Unless you know the person wants a dog, is able to care for one, including the expense that goes along with it, then you can create a hardship for that person. Not all people have the patience or the means to deal with an animal.

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12/1/12 7:31 A

Happy December everyone! I promise not to make every question this month relating to the upcoming holiday. However this was in my inbox this am and I thought it was worth a thought.

Do you think giving a puppy as a present is a good idea?

This really depends to me. As a present to myself or family maybe. I wouldn't bring the pup home on Christmas - too hectic. A puppy as a present should be a "December" gift.

I would NEVER give a puppy to someone else. A pup is too much responsibility. If they really WANT a dog, I might give them a card saying I will go with them to the shelter after the holidays to pick a dog and pay the adoption fee but I think a puppy/dog should always be chosen by the person who will be caring for it.

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