Parent to Parent: Pet regrets

Marianne Gasbarro, Animal Rescue League of Boston
"So it's not just a Christmas gift, really you have to figure out if really want this animal for the next 15, 20 years."

Many parents think it can be an ideal time.  

Kimberlee Burns, parent
"It is a nice gift, but it is impulsive when you do that and a lot of times people don't know what they're in for."

Marianne Gasbarro, Animal Rescue League of Boston
"So the holiday novelty can be fleeting when you're cleaning up after an animal and caring for an animal and paying for it the next 15-20 years."

One local mom had a plan when a celebrity son pined for a pup...Chris Affleck had young Ben walk an imaginary dog.  After a couple weeks, Ben wasn't so bent on getting a dog anymore!

Mom Tanya Melanson agrees--

Tanya Melanson, parent
"You need to know what you're getting into before you get a pet and it's a lot of work to take care of them, it's 24/7!"

Kim Burns is considering letting her 6-year-old daughter Grace have another dog--

Kimberlee Burns, parent
"We're thinking of getting a puppy for Ellie to pay with-I want to."

But it's something they're giving a lot of thought to....

Kimberlee Burns, parent
"Its a lot of work and then the animals risk not being cared for properly, you really need to consider it awhile before you do it."

Experts say talk to your kids about the long term impact....because in the long run, it could mean the pet making a trip to the pound--

Marianne Gasbarro, Animal Rescue League of Boston
"So, we really want people to think it through so they do not add to the homeless population."

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