Pets are for life: Biosecurity Qld

© istockphoto.com/Dan Wilton

THAT little doggy in the window, the one with the waggly tail, could become a tale of woe if it becomes an unwanted pet.

The thrill of receiving a pet as a Christmas gift can quickly wear off when the new owner faces up to the reality of permanent care of an animal.

Christmas shoppers should think carefully before giving a pet to a loved one as a present, ensuring the animal is actually a wanted gift, not a disposable burden, Biosecurity Queensland says.

"Pets are for life, not just for Christmas," said Biosecurity Queensland policy officer Ian Rodger.

"The person receiving the pet needs to have the capability and responsibility to look after the animal as it grows up.

"As young animals grow, owners and carers will need to devote more time to play with their pets and more time to take them for daily walks."

Owners also needed to be aware of the cost of pet food on the family budget.

Meanwhile the Queensland government has issued a warning that overheating and overeating are pitfalls for unwary pet owners over the holiday break.

Minister for Primary Industries Tim Mulherin said pet owners or those in charge of an animal have a duty of care to provide food, water and appropriate shelter and failure to do so can result in serious fines.