Children and Pets

Every parent has surely heard more than once from their child that they would like some kind of pet, usually a dog or a cat. For parents, this can be a demanding period, especially if getting a pet is out of the question and the children around them have one. What are the advantages and disadvantages of getting a new pet? Which pets do parents most often buy for the family, and when is the best time to get one?

Advantages 

Having a pet at home brings certain advantages not only for the child, but for the whole family.

• The child has a friend they can confide in about anything (great for introverted children).
• The child learns responsibility and duties.
• A pet can improve mood.

Disadvantages

Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages that need to be considered before getting a pet.

• The child may develop an allergy to the animal (fur, feathers, etc.).
• It is a long-term commitment - the child may not fulfill their duty of caring for the animal, and everything falls on the parents. 
• Going on holiday can be a complication if you cannot take the animal with you.
• Costly veterinary care in case of illness.

The most suitable animals for children

It is also worth considering the pet's lifespan, so that it is not too difficult to explain to a small child that the animal has died. Most often, parents bring home:

• a dog - requires care and is more demanding to keep;
• a cat - is more independent than a dog, but more moody;
• a guinea pig and a rabbit - require attention, are social;
• a parrot - low-maintenance, lives longer;
• a snake or a snail - more for introverted children who do not feel the need to cuddle with animals;
• a hamster or a gerbil - a low-maintenance pet that is very active at night and sleeps during the day;
• fish - easy to care for, apart from changing the water, which should be done by an adult, ideal for non-contact children who like to watch;
• a freshwater or land turtle - a grateful companion, lives a long time.

When to get a pet

Getting a pet is not something to do lightly; it needs careful thought, ideally waiting until the child is older so they can take care of the animal with minimal help from a parent. The ideal age for a pet is after starting primary school, when the child begins to develop caring and protective instincts and can look after the animal with the love and care it needs without being pressured by anyone. 

A new family member

Whether you get a pet for a toddler or for a school-age child, it should always be treated as another family member, cared for by everyone. That way, the animal will not be neglected and you will not constantly have to deal with your child saying they wanted the pet and now are not taking care of it.

Just as children have different personalities and traits, so do animals, which is why there is no single animal that is suitable for all children. Therefore, choose a pet that will fit your child best and that you will all be able to care for.