The DSPCA is reminding any children writing to Santa that it's better not ask for pets because they get airsick on his sled.
It also says unscrupulous dog breeders in Ireland are keeping dogs in cruel conditions on puppy farms to meet demand in the Christmas market, and is urging people not to support the trade.
Earlier this week 38 dogs were seized from cages in two apartments in Tallaght in Dublin, where a number of animals were also found dead.
Gillian Bird from the DSPCA says if people think they might want a pet, they could consider fostering one from a rescue centre temporarily.
