Jamestown  (CSi)  The James River Humane Society says while adopting animals is a year round activity at the shelter, giving them as surprise Christmas gifts is not a good idea.

On Friday’s Wayne Byers Show, on CSi Cable 2, Humane Society President, Gary Sahr said, animals should be acclimated to a new household, to see if the animals would be a good fit, especially in the home as pet already living there.  He suggests after Christmas, bringing your pet to the shelter to socialize with the dog or cat you’ve chosen to see if they get along.

Also with sub zero temperatures in the forecast next week, to not let pets outside for an extended period of time, adding that animals paw pads can freeze quickly, and to also keep that in mind when walking pets.

Keep pets away from electrical cords they may chew on, and some holiday plants are toxic if pet may eat it.

The James River Humane Society is open seven days a week from 9:30-a.m., to 11:30-a.m., and 5:30-p.m., to 6:30-p.m., or by appointment.

The shelter is located off the I-94 Bloom Exit.   Call 701-252-0747, or on line

visit:  www.jamesriverhumanesociety.org