Celebrate! is a your guide to events, shopping, dining, and enjoying the holiday season in the Pikes Peak region.

Ready to cave to your child’s desperate pleas for a puppy this Christmas? Thinking of gifting your aging parent a kitty companion for the holidays? Great idea.

“I of course think it’s a perfect time to add a furry friend to your family,” said Gretchen Pressley, community relations manager for the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region, located at 610 Abbot Lane. “Since most of the family is typically home during the holiday season, it gives you all more of an opportunity to bond and acclimate a pet to your environment.”

However, there are a few steps to consider before you load your car full of critters.

“We ask that you do your research – is this a good breed or animal for you or your family member?” Pressley said. “For example, I wouldn’t recommend that an elderly couple adopt a rambunctious puppy or an active family adopt a breed that doesn’t do well outdoors.”

And don’t worry, it might not be as much of an impulse buy as it feels. “Contrary to popular beliefs, studies show no increased risk of relinquishment for dogs and cats that are received as gifts,” she said. “Several animal welfare organizations see that people are more likely to keep the pet out of sentiment when it was received as a gift.”

If you are gifting an animal to a loved one, make sure they are prepared to receive. “We recommend people only gift pets to those who have expressed interest in receiving one and can care for them properly,” Pressley said. “If you have any doubt whether the person is ready, I’d suggest a gift certificate or making a donation to the shelter in their name.”