My Bestfriend

Getting a pet is a huge responsibility. You don’t just buy a puppy from some pet shop because you think it is cute! Or give it as a present to your six-year-old daughter because you heard her say that she wants a Chihuahua just like Paris Hilton’s. Pets are not things that we can discard we don’t like it anymore. Pet shelters are already crowded with unwanted animals and this has got to stop, now!

Shaun Olmstead, a responsible pet ownership advocate, provides these valuable tips for parents who are considering getting a pet for their kids.

Make sure your child is mature enough to care for the pet. Ideal age would be 5 years and above. Younger children don’t have the maturity to control aggressive and compulsive impulses and must be monitored with a pet at all times. However, older kids still need to be taught how to care for a pet and the responsibilities that come with owning a pet, including time spent exercising, grooming and playing. Parents should not expect children to take full responsibility for a pet. They should to be willing to shoulder the responsibility if the child can’t.

You should be prepared for the financial responsibility of taking care of a pet. Set money aside to have if the animal needs medical care. Pets need annual exams and vaccinations, food, toys, treats, beds, crates, leashes, collars, etc.

Before trooping to the pet shop, research on the internet the various animals and breeds that may interest you and your kids. Know all the details about the animal of your choice like grooming, exercise requirements, feeding, temperament, etc, and make sure it will match the kind of lifestyle your family leads. And when you finally get the pet of your choice, teach your kids to treat the animal just like a member of the family.

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