Guest Blog by Penny Martin, Fureverfriend
The joy of owning a pet is accessible to nearly everyone. Still, choosing the right companion for children can be tricky. Here, we’ll cover considerations for all pet owners, what type of animal is best for households with children, and how to prepare your child for the newfound responsibility.
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Help the Whole Family Learn Responsibility with Pet Insurance
Parents can offer their kids an excellent example of responsibility when it comes to pet ownership. The first step in keeping your new companion healthy and happy is tending to the animal’s needs. Feeding, watering, and exercising your pet is essential, but so is planning for veterinary visits. Bringing home a dog, cat, or any other critter involves finding a trustworthy vet and visiting regularly. But illness or injury could mean exorbitant bills, which is why it’s vital that you consider pet insurance. Many pet insurance companies offer wellness plans plus illness and accident coverage. So, shop around for the option that works best for your pet and family.
Choose the Perfect Pet for Kids
Plenty of experts disagree on which pet is best for kids, but the most common recommendations are cats and dogs. While cats make for great pets, their aloof personalities and resistance to cuddles can seem off-putting for kids. In contrast, dogs make particularly excellent pets for children because of their ability to bond with their owners. Canines can help their humans reduce anxiety, too, and studies suggest that dog owners are healthier overall. Of course, walking the dog is also great exercise for the whole family.
Talk About Expectations and Rules for Your Furry New Family Member
While younger children may not benefit from conversations about responsibility, many older kids understand the enormity of being responsible for a new family member. Discussing your pet’s reliance on the family for love and care can help frame the experience positively but realistically.
Learn together what to expect when bringing home a new pet — especially a rescue — and research as necessary. For example, training may take longer with an adopted pet who has had a rough start in life. Also, many houseplants can be toxic to both cats and dogs. Nixing those in favor of kid- and pet-friendly plants is one way to prepare for your furry friend.
You can also discuss finding the right food for your pet. If your pet has any health issues, you may need to put them on a special diet. For example, an overweight pup may benefit from a dog food that’s low in fat. If you’re adopting a cat with digestive problems, find a sensitive-stomach cat food that won’t exacerbate those issues. Always consult with your vet before choosing specialized food for your pet.
Get the Space Ready Together — and Discuss Boundaries
While rescue pets are a special circumstance, all pets benefit from having a safe place to which they can escape. Explain to your kids that a dog’s crate or a rodent’s cage is like their bedroom—it’s the one spot they can always go to if they feel overwhelmed or unsure.
You may also consider different types of pets while contemplating your home’s space and amenities. Smaller pets in cages are often ideal for families with allergies or those who live in apartments. Of course, dog ownership isn’t limited to households with big yards.
Set Routines and Stick to Them (for Pets and Children)
The same way your kids learned to eat a healthy breakfast and brush their teeth each day, so they also need to learn to tend to their pets’ daily routines. Young children can practice measuring food and refilling your pet’s water bowl, while older kids may handle cleanup and bath time duties. Either way, getting into a regular routine can help keep kids involved — even when the novelty wears off. You can also print a pet responsibility chart to ensure your children stick with their responsibilities. Make sure each chore is age-appropriate — and give your kids guidance so that they learn each task properly.
Getting your whole family ready for a new pet is a challenging undertaking. But with the right preparation—and the right pet—you can reap the benefits of companionship. Your kids might even display better behavior and confidence due to their pet ownership responsibilities.