Your child’s first pet: getting it right

Allowing your child to have a pet not only allows him or her to carry happy memories into adulthood, but also offers your child the chance to learn a few lessons in responsibility.  Getting a pet for your child at too young an age is also a bad idea though, and then when the time comes, the right kind of pet must be chosen.

Obviously as parents you will have final say over the choice of pet, but it’s very important that the child has an opportunity to provide input and also feel involved in the decision. If you child has his heart set on a dog, then a fish just won’t cut it.

The best pets for children are commonly recognised as being cats, dogs, fish, birds and rodents. Snakes and various exotic and expensive pets are not recommended, not only because of the costs, but also because they generally need more care and are higher maintenance than more common pets.

Fish need maintenance, as do birds, with regard to regular cleaning of tanks and cages, and feeding, but these tasks are not too time consuming and offer the child a chance to take responsibility for the animals’ welfare.  Both fish and birds are also low cost pet options. Neither need pet insurance either.

Rodents are a step up, because not only do they also need regular cleaning and feeding, but because they also need exercise and attention. Rats, rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs are more interactive pets than fish or birds, but also need a close eye kept on them when out of the cage. They also need to be let out often to exercise and play. Generally, rodents are also low cost pets.

Cats and dogs make great pets; they have a long life span and are very interactive and affectionate. Both cost much more to maintain though.  Food costs are higher, vets bills become a factor, and they need much more care and attention than other pets. Cats are able to handle a fairly solitary life, but dogs need much more attention. Both need pet insurance.

Whichever pet you choose for your child, as parents you will have to accept that the responsibility will ultimately fall on your shoulders, so factor this into your final decision.