SIR - Christmas is "the most wonderful time of the year", but it isn't a wonderful time to add a new dog, cat or other animal to the family. That's why it's important to resist the temptation to give a living, breathing being as a "gift".

Animal companions require plenty of time, attention, patience, and money - all of which are scarce during this season. Adopting cats or dogs means at least a 15-year commitment to love and care for them unconditionally. It also means finding a good match for family members' activity level, experience, abilities, and personalities.

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Many animals given as "gifts" are surrendered to shelters or dumped outdoors to die after the festive period, when the novelty wears off and families find themselves overwhelmed.

Don't let the holidays end in heartbreak. If you're certain that your loved ones want an animal companion and are ready and able to provide one with a lifelong home, consider wrapping up a bowl, a bed and a voucher for an adoption at a local shelter. That way, the recipients can choose an animal who is a good fit for their personality and lifestyle, after the Christmas season has passed.

Jennifer White, Peta, All Saints Street, London