A unique idea for a Christmas gift is adopting a cat or dog for a loved one. However, one local animal organization urges you to use caution if you are looking to go that route.

Greene County’s People for Animal Welfare Society (P.A.W.S.) President Ann Wenthold says while it’s a nice idea to adopt a pet for a loved one as a gift, make sure it’s the right fit.

“As a surprise at Christmas time might not be the best option if that person really isn’t on board with the surprise or a new pet. We don’t want you to go through the process and then have to bring the animal back.”

She urges those wanting to adopt a pet to do the research needed to make sure that everyone is on board with the type of animal to adopt. Wenthold adds P.A.W.S.’ adoption process is over two-weeks, but they have a list of current animals for adoption on their Facebook page, which can be viewed in this story on our website at raccoonvalleyradio.com.