WINNIPEG Some animal shelters usually say getting a furry friend around the holidays is a bad idea, but this year may be different due to public health orders during the pandemic. Most years, the holidays are filled with get-togethers and parties with family, friends and excited children. Introducing a new cat or dog into a bustling, busy household at this time of year can be very stressful for the animal, said Carla Martinelli-Irvine, the founder and executive director at Winnipeg Pet Rescue Shelter. But given the extended public health orders, which limit social interactions to households only, her animal shelter may consider applications for pet adoptions, she said.