Bad idea: Giving a pet as a Christmas gift

While you may be looking for that perfect gift, here's a tip on what not to get someone for Christmas: a pet.

Even though giving a pet a home is a great idea, giving a pet as a gift is not.

"We don't think they make good gifts, because it's a lot of responsibility," says Paula Allison, Shelter Manager at Pet Savers in Shreveport.

Allison stresses a pet is far different from regular gifts.

"You're looking at 10 to maybe 20 years of living with this animal," says Allison. "It's a lot of commitment."

Allison says getting any animal would require a lifestyle change.

"You've got to walk the dog, you've got to exercise the dog, you've got to be diligent, you've got to step up," says Allison. "It's going to change your life. It's like a child."

Pets are also a big financial responsibility.

"Even though you have paid for the puppy, they've got to keep the dog fed," Allison says. "What if there's an accident? It's a huge responsibility financially."

So, parents if you're thinking about getting your little one a furry friend this Christmas, think again.

"A puppy is not like a sweater," says Allison. "You can't exchange it if it's the wrong size or the wrong color. You just can't take it back and exchange it."

Allison gave a good suggestion to people wanting to give a pet as a gift.

Give someone a gift certificate to the nearest shelter to go get the pet themselves.

For parents, you can put a stuffed animal under the tree and put "I.O.U." around the neck with a ribbon.