Pets For Kids: Here are 10 Essential Reality Checks for YOU to consider when ‘others’ are considering the addition of a new pet to your family or household.
So you want a pet or at least your kids want a pet, well there is nothing unnatural about that, the whole idea will sound great…but wait a minute, stop and think…. there are some great positives about this idea….there are also some essential reality checks that need thinking about….a quick read through my checklists below will help you make a more realistic decision.
Remember the old saying “A pet is not just for Christmas”. Someone will have to clear the ‘pooh’ up at the end of it …. all.
Essential Reality Check No. 1 –
The Type of Pet
The type of pets for kids you can take into your household will depend on a whole host of things such as follows:
The ages of your kids – a two-year-old child will probably not be able to handle a pet gently and certainly won’t be able to care for the pet…..
The ages of your kids – a two-year-old child will probably not be able to handle a pet gently and certainly won’t be able to care for the pet…..
How much will the pet costs be – not just to buy – but to care for on a daily basis?
What size of pet does your child want? – What space will be needed? A hamster does not take up much space but guinea pigs, ferrets and rats need much larger cages.
How much time do your kids and you as a family have to give to the pet?
Will your family be safe with the pet? Will the pet be safe with your family?
If you have a larger pet such as a dog, cat, or goat what effects will it have on your family, friends, and neighbors?
How will your pet be cared for during your holidays?
Will your family be able to cope with the eventual death of a pet?
Some pets will sleep most of the day and be awake at night. Hamsters can be very noisy at night!
If your child wants a dog you will need to look into the breed, size, and exercise needs of the dog.
Do you already have another pet, what effect will it have on that pet? For instance, will your dog be OK with a cat or rabbit, or bird?
