Pet surrenders surge after Christmas at Central Kentucky rescue – WKYT

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – A furry friend can be an exciting addition to the family, but timing is everything, and as some rescues prove, Christmas isn’t that time.

Paws 4 the Cause Vice President Anita Spreitzer said surrender calls spike after the holidays. Animals can be given as spontaneous and emotional Christmas gifts, but she said they are often returned once families realize the commitment required for pet ownership.

“Two months after Christmas, when people get pets for Christmas, they don’t realize the commitment that animal has,” Spreitzer said.

Spreitzer said all the new sounds and people can overwhelm pets, making Christmas a poor time for introductions. Unattended food can put an animal’s health at risk.

“Christmas is a very joyful time of year, but it’s a very hectic time of year, so sometimes putting an animal in the mix of those things, or a new puppy, it’s hard for the animals to adjust to all of that. It’s better to do it at a time when things are quieter,” Spreitzer said.

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