I wish I was writing this post because we are finally acquiring a furry critter in our home alas this is not so (thanks sweet hubby.) However, I do have many a friend who are seriously thinking of bringing in a pet into their home, yet are worried on how the dynamic of having a new pet will effect their young children. The main reason for bringing in a pet is usually for the kids yet we the parents are the ones who end up with more of the responsibility. If bringing in a pet is in your radar these days, here are some helpful tips that will hopefully help you in your final decision.
Discuss everyone’s likes and dislikes. Large dogs may be too strong or active for young children, for example, while some people may simply prefer cats over canines.
No matter how mature your child is, he will need constant supervision and help handling the responsibility of a cat or dog. Ultimately, the parent is responsible for the pet.
A furry friend brings love and adventure, but he also brings new household chores. Some dogs—especially puppies—may need a lot of attention and training, while cats thrive on a daily schedule of feeding, grooming and play.
Some breeds are naturally more aggressive or high-strung than others. Breeds such as Labrador and golden retrievers are known to be more even-tempered and well-behaved around children.
Even if a family member has allergies, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t adopt a pet.Learn how to create an allergen-free environment.
Learn about pet care, and explain to your children that walking a dog several times a day or cleaning a cat’s litter box is part of the ongoing responsibility of caring for an animal.
Young children may unwittingly mishandle or hurt puppies and kittens, who are particularly vulnerable to being injured. On other hand, baby animals may have needle-sharp nails and teeth that can hurt children.
Family members may have their hearts set on a large, active dog, but that particular pooch may not be the best choice for your circumstances. Or perhaps you like the look of a long-haired cat, but aren’t so keen on daily brushing.
Make Fido or Fluffy feel welcome with all the comforts of home. The last thing you want is to rush to the store for a litter box and hope that your new cat will patiently wait for your return!
A schedule is a great way to get the family involved in your pet’s care and ensure that no one forgets to walk the dog or feed the cat. It will also help foster relationships between your new furry friend and everyone in the house.
Tips via ASPCA
Photo, Bee Ladd