During this time of the year everyone is busy, but the Facebook group - Animal Friends - is adamant about getting their message across.

With the help of the Animal Welfare Department they have embarked on a viral campaign to spread one very important message - pets are not just for Christmas...they are for life.

We all love to give and to receive presents during this time of year, and what’s a better than a puppy for our kids? Their eyes will light up and glitter with delight but think about it first. After Christmas the puppy will be still there. Animals are living creatures that need attention for life. Before getting anyone a pet for Christmas ask yourself these questions:

Will they have time to teach him and take care of him?

Will they be patient if something goes wrong?

Can they afford to take care of him?

Do they have space for him?

Will they love him for life?

A pet is not a toy... when you’re fed up of it you cannot just throw it in a box and stash it away in a cupboard. Even worse... you cannot throw it out in the road. A pet has feelings, has a brain, he is a living creature like you and me.

And if you're still getting a pet for Christmas - adopt one. It's the Christmas thing to do!