How to Choose a Pet for a Child?

Children love animals and they can be beneficial for many reasons. Pets can provide love and companionship and they teach a child about responsibility. Small animals are ideal for children but there are some important things to consider:

• The age of the child
  A child that is under four is usually quite young to have a pet and the child won’t be able to take any real responsibility for the animal. Animals that have the potential to be aggressive, which includes cats and dogs shouldn’t be left alone with babies or very small toddlers.
• The temperament of the child
  Every child is different, just like every pet. Some children are fickle and lose interest in new things easily – these children will not suit long living animals. Some children thrive when given jobs and responsibility, some hate it – the ones that dislike chores may be suited to animals that need less care and so on.
• Commitment of the child and family
  Getting a pet always seems like a good idea until the animal isn’t quite as expected or a vet bill comes along. A good idea is to test commitment – go to an animal shelter. There are many schemes where a family can look after an animal for a weekend or longer. Is the experience enjoyable or difficult?
• How busy is the child?
  Some children who are lonely or don’t tend to get to play out love to have an animal friend. Other children are busy with after school classes and clubs – do they have time for a pet?
• How busy are the parents?
  At the end of the day, parents will have to deal with the bills and a lot of the general care for the animal. Busy parents don’t have to time clean a litter tray every day or groom a long-haired cat.
• How long do you want a pet for?
  An animal like a mouse or gerbil or hamster lives for 1-2 years. This may be a good idea for a first time pet owner who isn’t ready to commit to 15 years with a cat.
• Is the child sensitive?
  Sensitive children can become extremely upset if an animal dies, to the point where it causes depression. Be aware that you need to discuss death with them and explain the causes of it.

Never buy a pet for a family without their prior consent. Sometimes it may seem like a good idea to surprise your niece or nephew with a little animal, but this is always a bad idea if the parents haven’t agreed to it first.