Having a pet can be a positive experience for a child. They can bring a child years of happiness. It can also provide an opportunity for children to learn life lessons while they care for a living being. Pets are a great way to teach children responsibility, along with the guidance of the parents. They provide companionship, entertainment and opportunities to learn. Some pets are better for kids than others. Before getting a pet for your child, here are a few factors to consider.
Considerations
- Does your child suffer from allergies to fur or feathers?
- What level of touch does your child wish to have with the animal? Would he or she rather have a cool animal to observe?
- How much are you prepared to spend on the animal? Think about what you initially need to buy and what the ongoing costs will be.
- How long of a commitment are you willing to make? Think about how long this pet is likely to live.
- Who will look after the pet when you are away?
- Will the pet live inside or outside? How much space do you need?
- How much time will you or your child need to look after an animal?
Now that you have thought of all of these factors, let’s take a look at what animals may be a good match for your child.
Fish
Perhaps your child is just looking for something pretty to observe. In this case, a fish is a great starter pet. If you intend for your child to care for a fish, keep it simple by buying one Betta fish and keeping it in a fishbowl. An aquarium full of fish is beautiful to look at, but the parents are the ones that are going to have to handle the upkeep of it. However, as long as you are okay with this, you and your child can create a beautiful underwater scene together to enjoy.
Birds
Another good pet for a child may be a bird. However, it takes more to care for them than it does a fish. The bird channel recommends that only children 12 and over should be responsible for taking care of a bird. One recommended bird is the canary, as it can be kept on its own. A canary only needs food, water and cage cleaning. Another option is a Parakeet. This bird is in the parrot family and is native to Australia. It likes interaction, and some can even talk.
Small Critters
Guinea pigs are great starter pets for kids. They will thrive in a relatively small living space, and caring for them is pretty simple. They are exceptionally docile and loving. Guinea pigs usually don’t nibble on fingers. They tend to be very clean and they eat plants. Hamsters and gerbils are another excellent option. However, be aware that they both have a tendency to bite when they get scared, and this is quite common. Nevertheless, your child is likely to enjoy watching hamsters digging about and running on their hamster wheel.
Rabbits
What child can resist a fluffy little bunny? Rabbits also make great pets for kids. They are easy to love, but a bit more difficult to care for. They are sociable and make wonderful companions. However, you should know that rabbits often live for more than 10 years. According to Petfinder, rabbits should only be kept indoors. They need to be let out for several hours a day for exercise.
Kittens and Puppies
Kittens and children are an ideal pair. Playful and energetic cats can get the attention they need from kids, while the kids learn to be responsible. It is best to choose a breed of cat that is known for its calm, affectionate and tolerant temperament. Abyssinian cats are friendly and sociable. American Shorthairs get along with dogs. Burmese cats are affectionate and gentle. Birmans are easygoing.
An older child may be ready to help take care of a dog, but not every child will be able to handle the responsibility on their own. In addition to this, some breeds are not suitable for children. Dogs that are known for being good with children include Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Pugs and Cocker Spaniels.