How to Pick an Appropriate Pet for Your Child

By mollyhcarter

Instructions

Step 1:
Consider how much time and money you are willing to commit to caring for, cleaning up after, and loving this animal. Although it may be your child’s pet, ultimately all the responsibility for how well the pet is cared for will fall on you. Even small pets can add unforeseen expenses like illness, housing, food, and pet sitters. Choose wisely.
Step 2:
Consider your child’s age. How much time will your child be able to commit to cleaning and caring for their pet? Is your child old enough to remember to feed his or her pet?
Step 3:
Think about what type of pet you would like in your house. Hamsters and gerbils, which are popular pets for younger children, are actually some of the worst choices. They bite and have to be held very carefully. A child could literally squish their hamster to death by squeezing too hard. Is a fish or hermit crab a better option? Although a dog is cute, it takes a lot of time and training, and unless it is compatible with your child may bite or nip at them.
Step 4:
Take your child with you when you pick out their pet. If you do opt for a dog or cat, make sure that the animal is comfortable around young children, and that your child is comfortable around it. The same is true for picking out rabbits, guinea pigs, and other animals. Each animal has a personality, so be sure that your child and it are compatible.
Step 5:
Show your child how to hold and care for the animal correctly. Guinea pigs for example, can’t be picked up by their mid sections because it will cause internal damage. Hermit crabs will pinch if you put your finger near their claw. Fish will die if you dump an entire bottle of food in the cage.
Step 6:
Ensure that your child understands that their pet is a living creature. Young children are generally unaware of how others think and feel because they aren’t capable of grasping thought outside of their own. A pet is not a moving stuffed animal, and you need to ensure your child understands they feel pain.

Tips & Warnings

Choose an animal that you will be able to love and care for.
Use a pet's death as an opportunity for your child to learn about death. Don't lie.
Never choose a pet that you do not plan on keeping throughout their lifespan.
Never allow your child to mistreat or mishandle their pet.

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