“How much is that doggy in the window? The one with the waggly tail…”
Do you have children and are thinking about bringing a pet into your home? If so, you're in for a wonderful experience! Pets can provide children with companionship, love, and learning opportunities. However, there are a few things you need to do to make sure that your pet and your children are a good fit for each other. Here are some tips you need to know before bringing a pet into your home with children.
“Choosing Your Pet” Checklist:
- How old are your children? Would you consider bringing a high-energy dog to play around with your crawling toddlers? How responsible are they in taking care of the pet if you are not around the house?
- How big is your home? Would you consider bringing a Mastiff into your tiny apartment?
- How active is your lifestyle? Do you love to take morning jogs? If so, a sporty dog is right for you. Or do you prefer sleeping in and just chilling at home? Perhaps a cat would fit your personality.
- How big is your budget? How much are you willing to spend on your pet’s food, hospitalization, and other expenses?
Introducing Your New Fur Sibling:
- Let your children meet the pet in a neutral location, such as a park or a friend's house.
- Let the pet sniff your children's hands before they pet it.
- Teach your children how to pet gently.
- Supervise all interactions between your children and the pet.
What if my child is afraid of animals?
If your child is afraid of animals, you can start by exposing them to animals in a controlled environment. For example, you can take them to a petting zoo or a friend's house who has a pet. You can also read books and watch movies about animals with your child.
What if my child is aggressive towards animals?
If your child is aggressive towards animals, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can help your child learn how to interact with animals safely and respectfully.
Bringing a pet into your home with children can be a wonderful experience. However, it is important to do your research and prepare ahead of time. By following the tips in this blog post, you can help ensure that your pet and your children are a good fit for each other.
