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Tips on buying a pet as a gift

Make sure to match the demands of the pet to the lifestyle and situation of your friend.

Elderly people or people with a tiny flat may not enjoy the demands of a great dane puppy. Some one who travels a lot might appreciate a goldfish instead of a cat that needs daily feeding.

Unless you are an expert take time to learn about the characteristics and temperament of different breeds and match these to your friend.

Consider whether your friend will have time to look after a pet. If you get a puppy they will have to train and exercise the puppy. Think about the future, will the owner be able to give as much of his/her attention to their pet in a couple of year's time?

Make sure your friend can afford a pet. There are costs involved with pet ownership and as well as vets fees, food and pet care products, some of which may be offset by pet insurance, there may also be costs for kennels and training.

If you want to buy a pet for your children choose a pet that suits their age and research breeds that go well with children.

Before buying a pet as a gift for someone you need to make sure that they are ready for the responsibility a pet brings. If there is any doubt in your mind, getting a pet is not advisable as it could result in an unwanted and unloved animal.