Juno is available for adoption from PAWS & More.

It might be cute to find a new furry friend poking out of your stocking this Christmas, but PAWS & More Animal Shelter in Washington recommends not to rush into gifting a pet this holiday season.

Shelter Director Amber Talbot says her staff wants everyone in an adoptive household to be on board with getting a cat or dog, “If your partner is not ready or someone else in the household is not ready, I think everyone kind of needs to really take a step back and wait until everyone is ready. Because there is a lot of struggle that happens when everyone is not on the same page and we don’t want to see these animals come back to the shelter due to complications once they got home.”

Talbot adds it’s important to consider one’s schedule and availability to properly look after an animal, and evaluate what type of breed or animal you’re best prepared for. If you’re hosting a holiday party for the first time with furry ones at home, Talbot advises to keep that pet kenneled or in another part of the home from partygoers. That way they won’t get into anything hazardous like decorations, food, and beverages, and they won’t get overwhelmed and anxious like shelter pets often do. If you’d like to spend this season with animals without the at-home commitment, Talbot says visitors are welcome to come to the shelter during their staffed hours.