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Finding the Perfect Pet for Your Child
By Thomas J. Gunning, Edited By Deb McCoy
Americans love their pets. In Florida, for example, about 60% of us have at least one dog, cat, bird or other animal. And why not? Most are cute, warm and cuddly and as members of the family, they give us companionship, unquestioned loyalty and unconditional love. Is it any wonder our kids adore them?
But there's even more to cheer about. Bring a puppy or kitten into the home and your child will learn about discipline, responsibility, even about raising a “baby.” Pets provide an added bonus that I'm sure you're not aware of. Research at the University of Warwick, England, shows pet-owning children spent more time in school. “Pet ownership was significantly associated with better school attendance rates,” said Dr. June McNicholas, a university health psychologist. “This was apparent across all classes, but was most pronounced in the lower school (grades first–third and ages 5–8). Here the pet owners benefited from up to eighteen extra half-days of schooling each year than their non-pet-owning counterparts.” • Pets help children build self-esteem. • A child who builds a strong relationship with a pet also learns about trust. After all, pets are secure recipients • A child who cares for a pet will become responsible and learn responsibility. • A pet connects your child to Mother Nature; they learn to have respect for other living things. • Pets teach non-verbal communication, compassion and empathy. • And last but not least, pets provide the comforts of physical contact, love and loyalty. Children develop very special relationships with their pets who become trusted friends, companions and comforters. A child who learns to care for an animal with patience and kindness learns how to treat people in the same way. Careless treatment, on the other hand, is unhealthy for both the pet and your child. The Right Choice Consider all your family's needs, concerns and their health. Does anyone have allergies, for example? Do your research, the internet empowers you with all the information you need to know. Then decide, with your spouse what kind of pet you want, how much time you can spend with it and what the responsibilities each will assume. The kids can participate too if old enough.Exercise is an issue. Some pets get enough exercise within the confines of your home. Cats, birds and small mammals, for example, adapt easily to almost any setting. Dogs as you know, are a different story. Think about all the issues and then make an educated decision: Is pet ownership right for us? If you decide to take the plunge, and before you bring your pet home, prepare a special place for it to eat and sleep. Buy necessary accessories like collars, leashes, scratching posts and litter boxes (try thrift shops, etc. if you're on a tight budget), and call your local authorities to get a license, if applicable. Share the Care • You are responsible for your pet, even if you think your children are mature enough to care for it. • You are the role model. Your children learn responsibility by watching you. • Children under 4 years are not responsible. They are unable to control their anger and aggression so monitor them when they interact • Children under 10 are often unable to care for a large animal (like a cat or a dog) on their own. • Remind your children regularly that your pet needs food, water and exercise. • You may have to take over If your children become lax with their pet care duties. Prepare yourself for the possibility. Safety First Teach your child not to bother your pet when it's resting, sleeping, eating or playing alone with a toy. Explain to your children that your pet needs private time too. You also must protect your pet from young children (or those who are uneducated in proper pet care) who are only too happy to pull their fur or squeeze them too tightly. Young children are also unaware of the dangers of beaks, claws and teeth. Toddlers and pre-school children require constant supervision around pets. Animals are playful when young. They jump, scratch, bite, chew, bark, whine and cry when bored. Just like children, their bones and muscles are still developing and they too are awkward. A toddler may hold a pet too tightly, drop it, or even step on it. That's why an adult must be present at all times. Here are some safety TIPS for creating a safe environment for children and pets: • Toys should be strong enough to withstand chewing. BEWARE of toys that contain bells or squeakers that can be torn off and swallowed. Toys should be large enough to prevent swallowing by pets or children. • String, thread, balls of yarn and ribbon can be swallowed and lodged in your pet's digestive tract. Be especially careful with kittens. • Do not tease or aggravate a pet which may spark aggression in the animal. Many pets end up in area shelters because they nipped at someone in self-defense. Until your child is old enough to understand that a pet is not a toy, be present during play time. • Watch for abusive behavior. While most children treat their pets with care, some may be overly rough and/or abusive. If such behavior persists, it may signal emotional problems. No animal should be abused. Get professional help. A pet that you cherish will bring you untold rewards and become a loving, integral part of your family. Childhood pets are a rich source of learning and comfort for your children besides teaching them life's most important lessons. Just like your kids, pets require care and love and nurturing, but in the end, they're worth it!
Children and pets are a winning combination, look at the benefits:
of a child's private thoughts and feelings; a pet won't “spill the beans.”
• In today's age of the kid-couch-potato, pets demand physical activity and exercise.
It's critical that you choose a pet that's right for you and your family, your home and your lifestyle. It's also essential that you prepare yourself for a long-term commitment. Don't accept the responsibility of a pet if you and your family aren't committed to its well-being. Your pet depends on you for daily affection and attention-for its very life. Pets need food, exercise, grooming and play. Are you willing and able to fulfill those daily obligations? Animals also need regular check-ups and inoculations—veterinarians these days are expensive. Can you afford it? When choosing a pet, it's best to be realistic. Look for an animal who meets your requirements. Small dogs are best, for example, in apartments. Next, think about your lifestyle. Are you on the go a lot? If you are, where are you going to stash your pet? Have you thought about boarding arrangements? Once again, can you afford it?
When it comes to a pet, it's best to partner with your children to share the work load. If they're too young, don't overburden them with responsibilities they can't handle. Pet care helps children develop social skills. Take a look at these common-sense TIPS:
with pets. NOTE: Don't let pre-school children handle pets without parental supervision.
Don't let your child abuse a pet. When you show respect for your pet, your child will show respect for you.
• Pet proof your home to avoid accidents and injuries. Harmful cleansers, plants, electrical cords and breakable objects should be kept away from your pet and your kids.
