A local animal shelter director says she discourages giving pets as Christmas gifts.

Executive Director Ellen Simmonds of PAWS in Norwalk says consumers should not treat animals like they are merchandise and that they shouldn't be returned like a T-shirt.

Employees say they want their animals to be given a forever home based on love and trust.

Simmonds says PAWS does have several cats and dogs up for adoption, but if customers want to gift a loved one a pet, she encourages the family to come in and meet with the animals personally.

She adds that often people will fall in love with a picture of a potential pet, and if they come into the shelter, they can get a better sense if that puppy or kitten in the picture will be a good fit for their families.

Simmonds stresses that when adopting an animal, consumers are taking on a big responsibility and need to take in consideration things like training and vet visits before adopting. For more information about how to adopt a pet, click here.