When is the best time for a child to get a pet?
If your child decides he or she wants a pet, they are usually very persuasive and adamant that they will properly care for the creature. However, the decision is still yours. You know your child best, and you know if he or she is already old enough to care for a pet. Psychological studies clearly show that allowing your child to have a pet has many benefits. Children learn responsibility at an early age because animals depend on their care and behavior toward them. Furthermore, children who are exposed to animal allergens as adults are less likely to develop allergic diseases. However, it depends on how old the child is. Get a pet for a child who already has a good understanding of what it means to have a pet at home.
So what kind of pet should you choose?
In the beginning, choose a pet with a short lifespan, due to the fact that the child has not yet learned to care for a pet. The first pet will be yours to care for unless your child gives up the pet after a few months. If you are brave enough, you can of course get a dog or cat, but they usually have to be walked and trained, which is unthinkable for a small child. It is more for school-aged children who can walk the dog by themselves when they get home from school.
Rodents
Rodents are great first-time pets. Be aware, however, that the sleeping areas where rodents urinate and poop can quickly become smelly, so the cage must be cleaned frequently. On the other hand, they do not demand food or space. Guinea pigs, rats, hamsters, lab mice, gerbils, octopuses, dwarf rabbits, and chinchillas are ideal.16]
Fish
Fish are less demanding, but not very popular with fish-hating children. The aquarium equipment and the tank itself are expensive, but children can already take care of the fish and clean the tank themselves.
Dogs, cats
If the child is raised in a household with dogs and cats from birth, he or she may learn what to do and what not to do with dogs and cats. If the child does not grow up, leave these pets for future generations. After all, these pets need more care.
If your child is not at all keen on having a pet, put it off. Before you start getting a pet, talk to your child about what pet care entails and what he or she needs to do to ensure that the pet has everything it needs to live a happy life. Doing so can discourage or further motivate them to care for their pet and have a partner.