The holidays seem to be the time of year that animals are given as gifts to children and adults. However, there is one thing I have to say before you do this.

Are you going to be able to keep the pet?

A pet is a lifelong commitment. It is not something that you can return to the store if there are any issues. Pets are a member of your family once you adopt them. I have been very blessed to grow up with pets in my life. They were members of my family that I loved till their very last day on earth and one that I still get to keep loving on.

They are members of my family that I cherish having. They taught me responsibility and unconditional love. They also taught me how important animals are once they become a part of your life.

It always makes me so sad to see when puppies and kittens are returned to shelters just weeks after the holiday season. The reasons for return can range from a simple bite to stomach problems.

However, none of these make it okay to take an animal back to the shelter. These precious animals believed that they were going to find a forever home. However, this home was unprepared to welcome a new member into it.

Parents of young children need to be better prepared to bring pets home as gifts. When bringing an animal into the home, you must be prepared for the interaction between your child and the animal.

The animal is going to be confused until they better understand their new surroundings. They might act out in defense through barks or nips. This may stem from past trauma or the simple idea of defense for their well-being.

I want each person to think long and hard about the adoption of a pet during this winter season. Cats, dogs, anything you bring into your home is meant to be there as a forever home. They are not a simple gift that can be returned to the store.