"Can we get a puppy?"
"Can we keep this kitten?"
Kids and pets just seem to go together quite naturally. The problem is that while pets are easy to find, they can be difficult to care for. Where children are concerned, it's a good idea to let them become the caregivers for their family's pets. Responsibility of this type can teach kids to love animals and to provide care for something other than themselves. Pets make great hobbies and relaxing pastimes, as well.
To tap the training potential of having a household pet, get one that fits with your family's lifestyle. A horse that must be boarded ten miles away may not be a good match when both parents work odd hours and the kids seldom get a chance to visit their prized animal. Apartment dwellers or very busy families might do well to start with a goldfish or two. Cleaning the tank, changing the water, and feeding the fish the right amount of food can be a useful learning experience for young children. If all goes well, you may even wish to progress to a tropical fish aquarium as the kids and their skills mature. A larger tank with more fish raises the bar for pet care when kids start school.
Four-legged animals might be the next step in the pet-nurturing process. A fuzzy kitten or a friendly puppy can seem like a whimsical way to spend an hour or two at first, but children will soon learn that even small animals demand a fair amount of care. Teach your children how to properly feed and water their pet each day, and explain what happens when an animal doesn't get enough to drink or eats too much. House-breaking a kitten or puppy is an important task that requires a certain amount of time each day. Teaching a pet where to go about its business can help children learn to be patient guides with small creatures that need to be taught this vital information.
Weekly job lists might include washing the feeding dishes and grooming the pet. Brushing is the natural first step. But a puppy may soon need a bath. Any animal will require and enjoy play time with the kids on a regular basis.
Other pets, such as birds, reptiles, or small mammals like hamsters, will need similar care. Children must learn how to feed them and clean the cages on a regular basis. Explain that failing to do so can lead to an odor, germs, and perhaps even illness.
Larger animals, like goats, lambs, or a horse, require even more detailed care. Before agreeing to this acquisition, get your children a few books on caring for this type of animal. Or enroll them in a pet care class, like those provided by the 4-H organization. Ensure they understand all the duties that accompany a pet of greater size.
Pets are a fun pastime for the entire family. But don't neglect the opportunity of helping your kids learn to properly care for the animals in your household. In doing so you will provide them with life-long skills, memories, and experience.
