Is Your Family Ready For a Pet?

They are cute, fluffy, and adorable in the pet store, but is your family ready for a pet? Your children may beg and plead to get a dog or cat, but are they willing to help with it? They might say "yes" but is that really the case? Consider these things, before jumping in...

o How much time do you have to devote to a pet? Are you out of the house a lot? Do you travel often? Does anyone have allergies that make certain pets off-limits?

o Is your child mature enough for pet? Most experts recommend that children be 6 years of age. To gauge your child's readiness, be sure he shows self-control and obeys the word "no." Also, observe his behavior around other people's pets to see if he is gentle and respectful with them.

o Read as much as you can about the types of animals you're interested in before buying anything. Different dog breeds vary on how much exercise and attention they need. You'll want to choose an animal and breed that suits your family's lifestyle. Also consider which breeds shed the least and the most, and if you are willing to clean up mountains of dog hair or not.

o Consider how much a pet can cost. Food, medical care, grooming costs can add up to $400 a year.

o If you are considering a puppy, think of the time and effort needed to train them. Not to mention the clean up after accidents. Will your child be willing to help with these issues?

o Before going out and purchasing that Great Dane, you might want to consider getting a small pet such as a mouse or a fish to see how you children react to it. This may help you and them prepare for a larger animal that takes more effort.

How Kids Can Help With the Pet

No matter how much your children tell you they will help you with the pet, the novelty often wears off and the parents are left with the lease and the pooper-scooper. But, if you get a pet keep insisting that the children help because they definitely have the ability to.

Young children (ages 5 and up) can feed the pet, make sure he has clean water, and brush him if necessary. With your supervision, your child can also help walk a dog and clean cages or tanks for hamsters, guinea pigs, fish, and other small pets.

Older children (ages 10 and up) can take on more responsibilities, including walking a dog solo, emptying a cat's litter box, and cleaning a small pet's cage. Also consider letting a child this age participate in any dog training classes you may attend.

Owning a pet can be a tremendous responsibility for a child. But it can also teach them responsibility, provide them with some exercise (walking and playing with the dog), and teach them how to nurture and love another living creature.

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