Before you start considering what type of pet to get your little one make sure they have expressed a genuine and consistent interest in wanting a pet.
That’s a good thing, because children younger than five cannot handle the responsibility of caring for a pet.
Toddlers and very young kids are much more likely to injure an animal, or risk being injured themselves by a fearful or startled pet.
Evaluate your child’s maturity and responsibility level, no matter how old they are. If they are mature for their age, take direction well, use common sense, have a calm nature and shows empathy for animals, they are probably ready for a pet of their own.
When you discuss acquiring a pet with your child, help them understand pets are not like toys that can be tossed aside or given away if they grow bored with them. Make sure they understand the commitment they are making is for the lifetime of the pet.
Unless you’re prepared to share primary caretaking responsibilities for a pet like a dog, cat or exotic bird with your child, it’s recommended that you start small. You can begin with a couple of fish or a turtle if you’re really unsure of your child’s level of commitment. Or you can start with a ‘pocket pet’ like a rat or a hamster.
However, don’t assume because a pet is small or lives in a cage it doesn’t require much care. All animals require attention in order to be healthy and balanced.
Also read: Ending the cycle of unwanted pets
Both pocket pets and pet birds require lots of interaction and plenty of time outside their habitats. That’s why research and preparation are priceless when it comes to a decision about what type of pet is best for your child.
Before bringing the pet home, discuss with your child the needs of the animal and everything that is involved in caring for it.
Books on pet care from the library or the pet store can help them understand what is expected of them. So can a visit to a friend who has a pet, where your youngster can see first-hand what care of a pet involves.
If your child loses interest in a new pet, be prepared to set the right example by not giving up the animal.
Your child should learn responsibilities don’t just disappear when she grows tired of them. Each member of your family must be willing to take care of any pet you adopt for its lifetime.
q Information obtained from www.healthychildren.org and www.huffingtonpost.com.
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