Finally home for the holidays

Pets can make wonderful holiday presents. But any act of giving that involves animals needs to be well thought-out.

“If someone is going to adopt a pet, they have to understand that it’s a 15-year commitment,” said Madeline Bernstein, president and CEO of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles. “It’s not a whim, it’s not an accessory, it’s not something in your purse that you go clubbing with.”

Bernstein says it’s not a good idea to surprise someone with a gift of a pet they haven’t met in advance. All kinds of complications can arise — like the person being allergic or just not liking the animal. “We usually advise that if you want to do that — even if it’s for your kids — that you give a gift certificate for the adoption. They can then come and choose their own pet and all of those problems are avoided,” Bernstein said.

When searching for a pet, animal shelters have a lot to offer. Other than the satisfaction of giving a needy animal a good home, choosing adoption can save you a bundle. The society charges $125 for dogs and $105 for cats, and that includes purebreds. The adoption fee covers spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations, identification microchip, leash or carrier, and a certificate for a free health exam by a participating veterinarian.

Another upside to adoption is that you can be sure your money isn’t going to a puppy mill — a distinct possibility if you get an animal at a pet store or buy it online.

The society’s pet adoption centers are located in Hawthorne and Long Beach (www.spcala.com). For a full list of the more than 1,100 animal shelters in Southern California, visit www.adoptapet.com.

—Joe Yogerst, Brand Publishing Writer