A popular gift for the holiday season is a furry friend. A puppy or a kitten, because a son, daughter or significant other asked for one out of the blue one day, after seeing a picture on Facebook.

Impulse adoptions are more popular than we realize, so a reminder to anyone who is planning on adopting a pet this year for a Christmas present, you probably shouldn't. Or rather, you should reconsider it.

Pets are a lifetime commitment and once you adopt one, they are a member of your family now.

Remember, puppies grow into dogs and kittens grow into cats. They do not stay tiny and clumsy forever, and no matter how cute they are — it doesn't mean their personality will work with your lifestyle.

For example, if you know you work all day and no one is ever home, you probably shouldn't get a very active dog.

If you have a baby or a young toddler, you probably shouldn't get a pet that doesn't do well with noises and has a quiet temperament.

If you live in the city, you probably shouldn't get a big dog that likes to run in open spaces.

Also, remember that kids are usually in it for the short-run. You can't force a kid to take care of the pet you adopted because they will promise, take care of it for a week and then get bored. Don't rely on your children, this pet is also your responsibility. If you know you'll get stuck with it and don't want one, you probably shouldn't adopt it.

So, with that being said, just remember to do your research, and take a moment to ponder on what you're getting yourself into. Remember that it probably won't turn out the way that you want it, and to not adopt a pet until you find your PERFECT match.

Don't adopt a pet because you "have to get one this year" for your kid. If it takes two years to find your perfect match, then it takes to years.

Pets become a member of your family and you can bet your furry friend will be in it for life, so why shouldn't you act the same way?