Editor’s note: This article was completed as part of a Community Service Learning course at MRU
The holiday season often brings joy and excitement, but it can also lead to impulsive decisions, especially when it comes to gift-giving. One common gift people consider is a pet. Becoming a pet owner is not a choice to be taken lightly, and gifting an animal is often more harmful than helpful.
It is important to remember that owning a pet is a long-term commitment that requires time, effort and resources. It’s not just about providing food and shelter — exercise, training and attention are also required. Sadly, many pets are surrendered or abandoned when their new owners realize they are unable to meet these demands.
The Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF), an organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming stray and unwanted animals, sees firsthand the impact of thoughtless pet ownership.
Tanaya Jilg, executive director, at ARF, says, “Many pets are surrendered because their owners didn’t fully understand the responsibility involved or no longer have the resources to care for them.”
ARF has been around since 1995, rescuing animals, specifically in rural communities with limited resources, and finding them loving forever homes. With a focus on compassion, community and collaboration, ARF ensures that each animal receives the best care possible. Through veterinary treatment, positive reinforcement training and enriching programs, ARF helps rehabilitate animals so they can thrive in new homes.
“Adopting a pet should never be an impulse decision. Before adopting, you need to consider the pet’s needs, lifestyle and if you can commit to caring for it for its whole life.”
Tanaya Jilg
Despite their best efforts, ARF is continuously overwhelmed by the number of pets in need.
“This year, we’ve seen a staggering increase in the number of animals being surrendered, and many rescues are at capacity,” says Jilg.
In 2023, the Calgary Humane Society recorded 216 cases of animal abandonment. With 137 instances already logged this year, 2024 is on track to be just as grim.
Gifting pets, especially during the holidays, can often lead to unintended consequences. Pets require lifelong care, and without proper consideration, many end up in shelters or rescues when their owners are unprepared for the financial, emotional and time commitments.
“Adopting a pet should never be an impulse decision,” says Jilg. “Before adopting, you need to consider the pet’s needs, lifestyle and if you can commit to caring for it for its whole life.”
If you’re considering giving a new pet, it’s important to remember that it’s not just a present — it’s a commitment. Before bringing a pet into your home, make sure you understand the responsibilities involved. Will you be able to provide the necessary care, attention and medical treatment? Do you have the time and energy to give a pet the exercise and stimulation it needs? These are just a few questions to ask before deciding to become a pet owner.
How you can help:
If you love animals but aren’t ready for ownership, you can still make a meaningful impact by donating, volunteering or fostering with organizations like ARF. When you’re ready, consider adopting a pet to provide them with a loving home.
ARF’s work relies on strong community involvement, and there are many ways to contribute that range from fostering animals to donating time or providing funds. Their recent holiday market helped raise vital funds, but the need for ongoing support remains.
“Providing resources for struggling pet owners, fostering animals and contributing donations are all ways the community can make a real difference,” says Jilg.
