Remember This When Considering Giving Pets As Gifts

They're cute. They're cuddly. And they're a lifelong commitment. The third statement is the most important one to remember when considering the gift of a pet as a Christmas gift.

Supervisor of the Lafayette Animal Shelter Virginia Lee says they encourage people NOT to give an actual animal as the present during the holidays. Instead, the staff will print out a decorative "gift certificate," free of charge, that can be presented to a family member or loved one. It basically states that you will accompany them to the Lafayette Animal Shelter at a later date to pick out a pet for them.

Adoption fees are $100 for any size dog and $80 for a cat. On Fridays, you can adopt a cat for $60. All animals are spayed or neutered before being adopted out. They are also up to date on shots and are micro-chipped. Collars and tags with their names and other important information are available for purchase at the shelter for a nominal fee.

Choosing an animal is a very personal experience, and the people at the shelter understand the process. Prospective adopters are allowed to visit with the animals up for adoption to find out their personalities and see if they blend well with one another. Also, what if the person giving the gift thinks the recipient wants a dog, and he or she would prefer a cat?

Before heading to the Lafayette Animal Shelter, feel free to take a peek at the pets up for adoption online. The shelter is located at 613 W Pont Des Mouton Rd in Lafayette, which is just west of I-49. Adoption hours are 1:00 until 4:00 each afternoon, Monday through Friday.