Children and pets

Every child at some point wants to have an animal and caring for their own pet is considered a valuable experience for the child's social development. However, before parents decide to purchase a pet for the child, some aspects must be well considered.

In the opinion of various psychologists, having one's own pet does not only have a positive effect on the development of the child's personality, the permanent contact with an animal should also make children more intelligent. The sense of responsibility is strengthened by caring for an animal, and children become more active simply by having a responsible job on a regular basis. This is especially true for your own dog, but there is always something to do in keeping cats and small animals. For city children, pets can be almost the only reference to nature.

Considerations before the purchase

Basically, parents should be aware that the purchase of a pet is something long-term, even a guinea pig can be 6 to 8 years old, a dog or a cat can live up to 16 years in a family. Finally, the parents must want the pet, because the primary responsibility for the animal may be transferred to the child, but the parents have to step in if the child is ill, in the school camp or eventually loses interest in the animal. There are other points to consider:

Which pet should it be?

All family members must agree on which animal should move in. Fears - for example dogs - or allergies have to be considered

Can certain pets be kept at all?

While birds and small rodents do not need to be approved by the landlord, the dog and cat look different. Read the lease and talk to the landlord and especially to the co-tenants if you want to purchase such an animal.

Is the apartment big enough?

Depending on size and species, animals need different amounts of space and freedom of movement within the home. It should also be clarified in advance, where the cage or the sleeping place for the animal can be.

How much time must be invested in the animal?

A dog is certainly the extreme case, as far as the daily time requirement is concerned. But even cats or small animals need employment, they must be fed and cared for and the cage must be cleaned regularly.

What does the animal cost?

With the acquisition costs alone, it is not enough. Dogs cost additional taxes, with all other animals at least feed and veterinary costs are added. More exotic pets, such as fish, need an aquarium. The monthly costs can add up to a considerable amount.

Where to go with the animal on vacation?

That too should be clear in advance. Who cares lovingly for the animal, either in their own home or on site.

When can a child care for a pet independently?

This question is difficult to answer universally. At the age of 6, some children are able to look after one animal responsibly, but at the age of 12 they can not. It depends on the personality of the child. As a rule of thumb, however, it can be said that a child of 8 years old is able to take responsibility for a small animal. When it comes to dogs or cats, the children should be at least 12 years old. It has to be considered that a child first has to grow into this task. Parents should initially support and encourage it until it is able to think and handle the important tasks.

Which animal is best for children?

Popular pets are small animals such as hamsters or guinea pigs, which are however conceivable badly suitable, since they sleep as nocturnal animals during the day actually. Giving these animals into the hands of children borders on animal cruelty. Even rabbits are actually dusk-active and use the day to sleep. Although the animals can change some, it is important to know the natural habits and, above all, to take into account. It should also be noted that most small animals, with the exception of hamsters, live in groups. Therefore you should never keep these species individually.

After all, dog and cat are the most suitable pets for children of all ages. They are usually strong enough to withstand heavier cuddly attacks and they can clearly signal when they feel too much loved. However, these species also require the dedication and enthusiasm of parents, who must be aware that the pet may live longer at home than their own children.

Having children grow up with pets certainly has a positive effect on children. However Parents must demonstrate how to deal with animals properly and this is only possible if they are able to please the animals themselves and have fun with them.

Did I forget something? Can you think of any more points?
I´m looking forward to your experiences and additions.

DAD-Chronicals : Children and pets