The Holiday Surprise That Can Break a Dog’s Heart

As the holiday season approaches, many families consider adding a furry friend to their celebrations.

 

However, animal experts in Brevard County are cautioning against impulsive pet adoptions, emphasizing the long-term commitment required.

 

Denise Dubrowski-Buchanan, president of Friends of Freddie Dog Rescue and a seasoned volunteer at the Brevard County Animal Shelter, has observed a recurring pattern.

 

“People think it’s this cute little puppy and then they realize it’s going to be a lot of work, cost a lot of money and take a lot of time,” she said.

 

“After two, three, four, six months, they call a rescue or show up at the shelter to surrender the dog.”

 

The initial two years of a dog's life are particularly demanding.

 

“Dogs are like kids.

 

Once they hit two, it’s usually smooth sailing.

 

But from eight weeks through adolescence, it’s constant work,” Dubrowski-Buchanan noted.

 

Financial considerations are also significant.

 

Veterinary costs for a puppy’s first year can range from $255 to $700, with additional expenses for supplies.

 

Emergency medical situations can further strain budgets.

 

“People don’t realize how expensive it is,” Dubrowski-Buchanan said.

 

“Just recently I took a dog in for shots, a nail trim and a basic office visit.

 

It was close to $300.

 

That’s for a healthy dog.

 

If that’s hard for someone to pay, imagine an emergency bill.”

 

Local shelters are already overwhelmed.

 

The SPCA of Brevard in Titusville is at capacity, housing 133 cats and 70 dogs, with many in foster homes.

 

“Owner surrenders are constant,” said Susan Naylor of SPCA of Brevard.

 

“So are requests from everybody.

 

It’s a tough time in animal welfare right now.”

 

To address this, the Brevard Humane Society has introduced the “Home for the Holidays” program, allowing families to temporarily host a shelter pet during Christmas or New Year’s without the obligation of permanent adoption.

 

“For many of us, pets are a special part of our family,” said Theresa Clifton, Executive Director for the Brevard Humane Society.

 

“But unfortunately not every family can adopt an animal full-time.

 

Our ‘Home for the Holidays’ program will provide an opportunity for families to spend time together along with an affectionate animal.”

 

Dubrowski-Buchanan encourages potential pet owners to consider fostering first.

 

“Fostering is the greatest thing,” she said.

 

“I give you the food, the bed, the crate — everything.

 

You get to help a dog, and if you fall in love, you get first dibs.

 

If not, that dog still gets a chance.”

 

Before gifting a pet this holiday season, families are urged to assess their readiness for the responsibilities involved.

 

“It’s time, it’s money, it’s training, it’s arranging care when you’re on vacation.

 

It’s everything,” Dubrowski-Buchanan emphasized.

 

“People have to be honest with themselves about the commitment.”

 

By making informed decisions, families can ensure a joyful holiday season for both themselves and their potential new furry family members.