Children will no doubt jump at the chance to add a pet to the family, likely preferring a dog or a cat. While pets can be a great way to teach your child about responsibility and friendship, among other things, it's wise for parents to recognize that not every pet is tailor-made for every family. Consider the following:
· Age of your children. Some would strongly recommend keeping your home pet-free until your children are at least six years old, when they're already in school and have already begun to mature. However, as the Humane Society of the United States points out, parents are the best judge of their child's maturity. If you feel your child, though young, is capable of exhibiting the self-control and discipline necessary to care for an animal, then
· Type of animal. Most children, when told the family is getting a pet, are quick to think "dog," as dogs are known for being more social and fun-loving than cats. That said, the breed of dog can be important. However, the Humane Society notes that all dogs can bite and the behavioral tendencies of a dog often play a more significant role in how well your child and dog will interact. Therefore, look for a dog that has been treated properly and socializes well with other people and animals.
While saving a dog from a shelter is a great idea and one that can also teach a valuable lesson to your child, be cautious around dogs that have been sheltered because they're products of abuse from previous owners or owners who did not train or feed them properly. Such dogs may not be as trusting of humans, taking a while to warm up to a new family, and might react negatively toward your child. Shelters typically inform potential adopters of a dog's special needs, such as a family free from other pets or young children.
· Make sure a pet is what you want. Children learn the most from their parents, who must set a positive example for their children. That applies to everything, and pets are no exception. Adults who aren't thrilled about a pet shouldn't get one simply because it's what their children want, particularly if children are young and won't be handling many of the responsibilities. Children can learn how to deal with pets and even people from watching you care for a family pet. If pets have traditionally gotten under your skin, holding off on a family pet until your child will be the one largely responsible for its care is probably your best bet.
· Lay down the law before the pet comes home. Let your child know beforehand that the latest addition won't be just a friend, but a responsibility as well. Again, much of this will be based on your own assessment of your child's maturity, but even a toddler can be involved in the care of a pet. Something as simple as filling a water dish can instill an early sense of responsibility in a child, and more responsibility can be granted as your child's maturity level grows. It's important that children's roles in caring for a pet are set in stone before the pet is welcomed into the family.
· Discuss possible behaviors of both children and animals. In addition to establishing responsibilities beforehand, parents should let their children know of certain behaviors their pet may be prone to. Typical behaviors should be discussed with a breeder or adoption agency. For instance, if you plan on keeping the dog outside in a fenced-in area, the dog might look at that area as his, and could grow defensive when anyone tries to enter it.
Also, certain behavior from children, such as screaming loudly or throwing tantrums, could cause an animal to react negatively. Discuss behaviors that are off-limits to avoid potential problems.
Fun Sites
Only Natural Pet Store - Everything Natural for Dogs & Cats (Click Here)
Shop PETCO.com's Free Shipping Store (Click Here)
Until next Time!
Jasmine
No comments:
Post a Comment