Public urged to think before buying pets at Christmas
DAERA and NICAWG are asking would-be pet owners to adopt a pet after Christmas instead.
Animal welfare organisations and the Northern Irish government have come together to urge the public to think carefully before buying pets at Christmas.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs of Northern Ireland (DAERA) and the Northern Ireland Companion Animal Welfare Group (NICAWG), which includes charities such as Cats Protection, Dogs Trust, and the USPCA, have reminded people that pets are long-term commitments.
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: “Whilst I know people have good intentions getting a new pet for Christmas, unfortunately, if careful consideration has not been given as to the long-term implications and responsibility of owning a pet, many of these animals end up in rehoming organisations.”
Because of the need to give new pets time and space, DAERA and NICAWG are urging people to wait until after the Christmas holiday is over before welcoming a new pet into their home.
They have also asked people thinking about buying a pet to consider adopting a rescue animal instead. Animal welfare charities currently have thousands of animals in their care looking for a new home.
Some animal welfare organisations allow people to reserve an animal before Christmas to bring home once the holiday period is over.
Nora Smith, chairperson of NICAWG, added: “During the festive season, as we plan our Christmas celebrations and gifts, it can be very tempting to welcome a pet to your family.
“Whilst we understand the intent behind this gesture, we are cautioning that pet ownership is a big decision and as such, animals should not be given as surprises or exchanged like a commodity on Christmas Day.
“Pets are a commitment. Often people do not realise how big a commitment they are. They do not belong under a Christmas tree.”
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Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
