FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WPTA) – Humane Fort Wayne is gearing up for an influx of surrendered animals as the holiday season winds down, echoing a yearly trend where the excitement of gifting pets fades into the realization of their responsibilities.
A Surge in Post-Holiday Surrenders
Melissa Gibson, Community Relations Manager for Humane Fort Wayne, highlighted the predictable spike in animal surrenders that shelters see after the festive season.
“When your kid says, ‘I want a puppy for Christmas!’ parents want to meet that demand, and then the reality sets in,” Gibson explained. “In the days and weeks after the holiday, shelters become even more inundated than they already are.”
The summer months had already strained local shelters with overcrowding, leaving them operating at capacity. This has forced Humane Fort Wayne to reduce the number of animals they take in, despite the growing need.
Pets as Responsibilities, Not Gifts
Gibson emphasizes the importance of understanding the commitment involved in pet ownership.
“People think, ‘Oh, this is going to be easy,’ and then they realize the dog they got will grow to be 90 pounds and isn’t as well-mannered as they thought,” Gibson said.
The shelter urges prospective pet owners to carefully consider whether they are prepared for the long-term care of an animal.
A Thoughtful Alternative: The Golden Ticket
For those still hoping to gift a pet this holiday season, Humane Fort Wayne offers a thoughtful solution: The Golden Ticket. This program allows gift-givers to cover the adoption fee for a loved one, enabling the recipient to choose their pet when they are ready.
“It’s a great way to ensure the match is right for both the person and the pet,” Gibson said.
Preparing for the Aftermath
To handle the anticipated post-holiday surge, Humane Fort Wayne is taking steps to manage resources and educate the community. However, the shelter hopes more people will approach pet adoption with the understanding that pets are lifelong companions, not temporary gifts.
For more information about Humane Fort Wayne’s programs, including The Golden Ticket, visit their official website.
