Think twice before giving pets as gifts this holiday season - WREX.com – Rockford’s News Leader

It's the season of gift-giving, and while sweaters and electronics are nice, the gift of a pet might not be the best choice.

According to Donna Apgar with Winnebago County Animal Services, pets may not fit the recipient's lifestyle. They may not be able to afford it, have time to care for it, or may just not like the type of pet chosen. Unfortunately, unwanted pets usually end up in shelters.

"We want to avoid that," Apgar says. "We want pets to be a forever commitment and at least a lifetime commitment of the pet, because it is a life you're dealing with."

Apgar says if you're committed to the idea of giving a pet as a gift, pet certificates are an option that would allow the recipient to choose the animal of their choice.