WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Holiday presents can come in all shapes and sizes; in some cases, those shapes can be animals. With so many people getting off work for winter break, it may seem like the perfect time to adopt a pet. But, adopting during the holidays can come with its own kind of baggage. Pet adoption rates have remained steady this holiday season, with dogs being less popular than cats. As of Monday afternoon, there are less than 20 cats and more than 50 dogs. If you're looking to add a furry friend to the family this holiday season, the Kansas Humane Society has some advice. "Adopting a pet is for life for the animal. It's not something to be taken lightly," Communications Director for the Kansas Humane Society Jordan Bani-Younes said. Traffic was steady at the shelter. People coming in and out, looking to add new members to the family. Sadie Svymbersky and her sister were among them; she was in search of a cat. Local experts share strategies to help manage mental health around the holidays "I'm actually on Christmas Break right now, so I'll have two weeks off to kind of train it and adjust it to a new living space," Svymbersky said. When deciding if that's the best decision, there are a few important things to consider, especially if the animal is intended as a pet. "[There was] a husky that got bought as a gift for a family member, and they didn't end up wanting," Bani-Younes said. To avoid putting a potential pet through that traumatizing experience, here's a checklist from the Humane Society: Make sure your entire household knows ahead of time If you have a landlord, check with them Consider the price of food and medical expenses If you already have a dog, bring them in to be socialized in a moderated space If you are looking for a dog specifically, the Humane Society says it's a good idea to start at your local shelter instead of going to a breeder. Adopting opens space in shelters. Click here to find out what pets are available at the Kansas Humane Society.