Children and Pets
When my daughters were young, one of our favorite summertime pastimes was to visit the animal shelter. We liked to pet and talk to the cats and dogs in the cages. Of course, there was always a point in the visit when one of them would ask if we could take one home. My usual response was that we had three animals already and we needed to take good care of them. The girls and I still enjoy animals very much. Each of the girls, who are both grown and on their own, have a dog. My husband and I have a cat and a dog.
When thinking about acquiring an animal, the most important thing to be stressed is that caring for them is a lot of responsibility that should not be done on a whim, such as a gift of an Easter chick or Christmas puppy or kitten. When considering adopting or purchasing an animal, there is a lot to consider. Will you be willing to care for the animal throughout its lifetime? (I can tell you from personal experience that cats can live up to twenty years!) The care involved includes: fresh water, food, shelter, grooming, training, veterinary care, exercise/play, and love. All of these things should be considered with children in mind. Will they be willing to help in the care of the animal? Does a family with young children have enough time and resources?
Children and pets can be a wonderful combination. Children can learn so much from their animals—-unconditional love, loyalty, responsibility, affection, companionship. Children can learn alot about themselves from pets. Pets can be the perfect companion, always willing to listen to a child’s triumphs and problems. Petting an animal can be very therapeutic for a child. Something so soft, warm, and cuddly can help a child calm down and relax. Children can learn to be gentle and responsible by caring for pets, with the correct training from parents. Also, children can learn the joy of being needed. They are very important in the lives of their pets.
Jill Phillips
ECFE Parent Educator