The Windsor Essex Humane Society has a lot of small animals as well as cats and dogs up for adoption this holiday season.
"We have a lot of small animals and that's something that's been a little bit different this year and last year. The number of small animals coming into shelters...has been a lot higher in the last couple of years," said Melanie Coulter, executive director of the Windsor Essex Humane Society.
The shelter currently has bunnies, guinea pigs, fish and a bird available for adoption.
Coulter says pets can make a great gift, but only in the right circumstances.
"A pet can be the most memorable gift you've ever had," said Coulter. "If your family has talked about bringing home a guinea pig and its something that you've been talking about and you know your family is ready and you know your children are ready to be part of that responsibility, making them part of the Christmas celebration can really be a way to make that homecoming special."
Coulter says giving a pet when it's never been discussed before is a bad idea.
"If it's a situation where you know this is going to be well received, you know there's plans for it. It can be a great part of the holidays," said Coulter.
For photos of all pets up for adoption at the Windsor Essex County Humane Society, visit their website.
