To think it is unacceptable to give someone a pet as a surprise?

[CruCru]

I keep hearing about people who have pets because someone have them as a surprise. I would go loopy if someone gave me a pet without checking it was okay. I love cats and dogs but don't want one of my own (allergic, doesn't fit in with our lifestyle, think I plain have enough to do). AIBU?

Ha. I've just remembered that MIL nearly did this to us - she bought a small tank and put some tropical fish into it, at her house. Then when Ds1 had seen it, she mentioned that we could take it home with us - I firmly and possibly not that politely declined! I said it was lovely for Ds1 to see it at hers and that was all he needed, thanks.

She did mention getting him a miniature pony (they're popular over here) but I again refused point blank - we have neither the time nor the space to look after one properly.

She also suggested that we have her dog to stay at our house while she was on holiday but I utterly refused - we're on a main road, our fencing isn't dog-secure and the dog is a wanderer, especially on roads - not so bad where she lives in her little backwater but a serious problem on our main main road! Plus I knew DH wouldn't be the one picking up the dogshit from the garden, or taking her for walks! Mind you the poor dog has never been taken for a walk, which is why she probably goes wandering - but she lives on the water and can get out and trot along the waterfront for quite a way, plus MIL's garden is pretty big.

I'm hoping I've knocked the "surprise pets" thing on the head with her, but possibly not.

YANBU

Even without allergies, have they ascertained that the recipient can afford to feed and care for the animal? Do they have the space it needs, the time to look after it, the inclination?

Having experienced my own DH buying dogs he hasn't got time To look after if anyone bought me or DDs a surprise Pet they'd be taking it back home with them.

What's the address Lally?

ahh thank you AdoraBell We only have one GSD left - we used to have two. Much calmer than my springer anyway. I have this vision in my head of you just now like in the advert - I think its a mcvities biscuit one where all the puppies come out the wrapper. I seriously think he may have got me something because he was gone in the field for a very very long time today but I didn't go because I didn't want to ruin it for him and the kids if they have . I am soo excited I cant sleep.

Then I hope you won't be disappointed in the morning.

Secretly hoping its the foal. I have been eyeing it up since it was at its mothers foot and its a stunner. Will get DD to help me break it then might even go back to showing again. This is not helping me sleep, I'm going to be a wreck tomorrow.

My idiot brother is always trying to convince me I want a dog.

He jokingly says he will just give it to one of the kids.

I jokingly say I will drop it right off at the pound and tell them that their Uncle wants puppies to die.

LOVE dogs, have had dogs will have one again in the future at a time and breed of OUR choosing.

I'm a dog breeder (registered, responsible, reputable disclaimer!), and if I get an enquiry wanting a puppy as a present for someone I refuse to sell to them. I've had a couple of 'if you need to contact us then please do so on the mobile as we would love this to be a surprise for the children' which is ok, but any email that mentions the word 'Christmas' is refused, in fact, I won't even have litters that are due around that time of year. It's amazing how many people do expect a puppy that will be exactly eight weeks old on Christmas day, oh and can you deliver it on Christmas Day so the kids get a surprise?

President Gerald Ford received a puppy for Christmas, but his daughter knew he wanted another dog. Besides, someone was home all day to look after it.
I do wonder what happened to Obama's dog. One never sees it in photo ops.
As a rule, only creatures filled with polyester fill are appropriate as gifts. I upset my girlfriend's sister in law by bringing her sons matching bunny Beanie Babies for Easter. She is terrified of rabbits, but I didn't know.

WE HAVE A FOAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and I am a wreck because I stayed up half the night too excited to sleep. Oh well, I will be missing for the foreseeable future. Have a nice day ladies!!!

I think generally not a good idea. Certainly not for someone you don't share a house with.

But I think sometimes it is, so if you have a child desperate for a dog and you are in a situation to get one knowing you will be the one who ends up walking it feeding it and picking up it's poo that's different.

Lally112's dh
I need a holiday, all expenses paid with spending money

Very pleased for you Lally!

I would love and adore another cat however if DH presented me with one, I would be slightly disappointed that I didn't get the chance to find one myself after checking out different personalities etc. and generally having time to be happy and excited in anticipation!

Lally112 Happy birthday, Lally. Mine was yesterday and I'm so glad no one gave me a pet. We've been through them already from stick insects, a slow worm to mice, hamsters, rabbit and guinea pigs. My DS brought in a jar of slugs when he was 3. They were soon shown where their home was.

Happy birthday Lally

Thank you all very much. My DH did good. I have been eyeing up this foal for the last 7 months. His mother is a dream but sadly not in any condition to be ridden in competition anymore. He is just like her in looks and personality and now he is all mine. Dsis did however insist on buying me a French manicure set?? I don't even have any nails. Happy birthday for yesterday Happy, hope you had as fab a day as I have. I'm only just in the door