No pets under the Christmas tree: animal rights activists warn against impulsive purchases

As Christmas approaches, the demand for pets is increasing, but animal rights activists warn against ill-considered gifts. The pet boom during the pandemic has led to an increase in animals ending up in animal shelters, as many ill-considered purchases end up there. The German Pet Trade and Industry Association states that 34.4 million dogs, cats, small mammals and ornamental birds are kept in German households. Animal welfare activists emphasize that animals are not Christmas presents and that online purchases should be avoided, as this promotes the illegal puppy trade. It is recommended that an animal should only be acquired when all family members are willing and informed to take responsibility. Animal shelters are overcrowded due to the pet boom, and financial burdens further exacerbate the situation.