A pet that is cherished is just like any other member of the family. The childhood pets are the perfect source of comfort and learning, and are fondly remembered through the later years of life. But caring for your pets can be really expensive and time taking. So if you are planning to have a new furry friend for your kid, try to provide sufficient care, training, and affection.
Read below to find how much important are pets for your kids.
A pet that is cherished is just like any other member of the family. The childhood pets are the perfect source of comfort and learning, and are fondly remembered through the later years of life. But caring for your pets can be really expensive and time taking. So if you are planning to have a new furry friend for your kid, try to provide sufficient care, training, and affection.
What are the safety concerns and benefits regarding having pets?
Most children are extremely fond of animals. Because they are really cute, cuddly, and warm, and for a kid, they tend to be like alive teddy bears. Caring for your pet can be very fruitful and have the following rewards.
- Animals are the best companions. They are very loyal and show unconditional love while helping young kids build their self-esteem.
- Caring for your pet can become a positive example for your children to take responsibility and be considerate of other humans and animals.
- Trying to figure out an animal’s wants and needs can help the children see the world from the eyes of their pets and develop greater empathy level.
Just keep in mind that no matter how much your kids are fond of animals, toddlers and school going children need continuous supervision around animals. Similarly, getting a pet just for the sake of making your kids responsible is not a great idea. Even extremely responsible kids can be very forgetful, yet reminding them constantly of the care and the feeding they need to give to their pets can cause higher level of bitterness towards the pets. So, before adopting a pet, try to make sure you are ready to take care of their meals and take over when your kid gives up and “doesn’t feel like doing it” or is busy in some other activity.
Some considerations to take into account before taking in a pet are as follows:
- Take in the pet for the right purposes. Are you having a pet because your kid is forcing you to get one? Surrendering to their wishes may result in temporary relief but it also brings along a huge responsibility that might end for longer than expected.
- Consult your family members. Everyone in your home should agree to have a pet around. Make sure that no one at your place is allergic to animals. And in case you rent a place, ensure to have the permission from your landlord to keep a pet.
- Analyse your space because animals require specific room to exercise.
- Try to take into account the time commitment. Are you really ready for at least 10 years long commitment for some animals?
- Think about the cost and the responsibility. Do you have sufficient time at hand to socialise, train, groom, feed, play and exercise the pet? Animals need toys, food, vet visits and the collars. Can you really afford it?
- Keep in mind that pets bring along some unexpected accidents like a chewed furniture or some sort of behaviour issue.
Image from Urban Puppies