Kids and pets: A practical guide if you're considering a new addition
‘Can we have a dog? Can we have a cat? Can we have a goldfish?’
If these requests sound familiar, then it’s highly likely you have at least one child who is only dying for a pet.
Big, small, squishy or scaly: your little one wants something to call their own, but you’re grappling with the idea, right?
If you’re considering introducing a new addition to the family in the new year, but aren’t sure what to expect, then it’s worth taking note of the following.
1. Pets teach children responsibility… if you let them.
Insisting that Fluffy’s hutch and all that lies within will be the sole responsibility of your children is all well and good, but it’s vital you see that through.
Teach your child how to care for their pet, take a step back, and only intervene if your child needs assistance.
Pets come with huge responsibility, and your child should learn that from its first day in your family home.
2. Consider your family’s lifestyle and schedule before committing
Most pets require a lot of work and attention, so it’s important you consider how often you leave the house unoccupied.
If you and the family often up sticks for a weekend, you need to consider whether a friend or neighbour will be willing to keep an eye on your pet, and ensure they’re fed and watered while you’re away.
3. Consider the size of your home
We’d all love to gift our child a Saint Bernard, but if you live in a two up – two down, then it’s just not feasible.
Nor is filling the house with countless small animals just to appease them…
Your child’s heart might be set on a dog, but striking a compromise helps your child to realise that extenuating circumstances often dictate, but that doesn’t mean they can’t find a balance.
4. Pets don’t come cheap… and your child should know this
Like everything else, pets comes with wants and needs, and those wants and needs don’t come cheap.
From food and vet bills to the cost of accessories, your little one’s pet can really eat into the family budget, so ensure your little one contributes every so often.
Whether it’s treating the dog to a new lead with their pocket money or picking up a new collar for the cat with their Christmas money, the kids need to be shown that they, too, are responsible for their pet’s upkeep.
5. Dealing with the death of a pet
It’s inevitable your child’s pet will pass away at some point, and while it helps to teach children a valuable life lesson, it doesn’t make it any easier.
Encourage your child to remember their pet, share memories of its arrival into the home and remind your child how much that pet loved them.
Losing a pet is an incredibly difficult thing to endure, so be sure your child knows they can come to you if they’re struggling to understand the process.
