There are numerous benefits of adopting a dog for children, as well as many other animals, including the introduction to daily responsibilities or a different emotional bond than they can experience with people. However, it is important to remember that the responsibilities of a companion animal truly fall on us, who must always supervise the interaction, and that the little ones must learn over time who enjoy and have fun, never by way of imposition.
Having a pet goes beyond playing with it, for this reason, in this article on our site we explain how to teach a child to take care of a dog, a cat or any other animal, in this children's guide to caring for a pet Keep reading!
Why does my child want a pet?
Having a pet in your care is a huge responsibility because his life is in our hands. If your child asks you to have a pet you should evaluate his abilitiesand think about which one is the most suitable for him
Which pet to choose for a child?
- A dog is a fantastic animal that will really teach your child what the word responsibility means. If you allow him to have this pet, you will create a lifelong bond between the two of you that will make him develop a love for pets. Set a good example for your child and adopt the dog at a kennel or shelter.
- A cat is an independent animal, although on many occasions it is just as affectionate as another pet. The care he requires is limited to the home, which will facilitate the fulfillment of his care. You can also adopt cats at kennels or shelters.
- Birds, hamsters, rabbits and turtles are very common options that also imply a minor degree of responsibility within the home. They will learn and have physical contact, which stimulates and benefits them. Remember that these types of animals are also possible to adopt, look on the Internet where to do it.
- Fish are the easiest animals to keep, they are also visually attractive, suitable for younger children.
What should I consider?
As an adult, it is your responsibility to know your child's capabilities and know if the pet will be able to adapt to the home, the lifestyle of the family, its dimensions, schedules, etc. You must teach your children the behavior and attitude to have with pets. You will also be responsible for the animal's quality of life if your child does not care for it correctly.
Delegating responsibilities to your child
We remind you that you are directly responsible for the he alth and care of the new pet, as your child may not fulfill his responsibilities 100%
For this reason we recommend that you delegate each of the responsibilities that the animal entails to your children in an orderly and varied way: walks, cleaning his cage/bed, feeding… Find out about the care your new pet requires and pass it on.
To encourage their responsibility and make sure they meet the basic requirements, you can make them make a small notebook detailing what the pet needsand how they should be satisfied to achieve a good quality of life before adoption.
Get information about rabbit care, parakeet care or hamster care among others on our site.
Child's attitude
If your child asks you for an exotic animal you must explain why it is not possible and the reasons why many animals today are in danger of extinction. The reduction of its habitat, pollution or hunting are some of the reasons.
You should also make him understand that the animal has feelings, feels and suffers. For this reason you should not play with him roughly, hurt him or bother him when he shouldn't. Guide him towards what should be a positive and respectful attitude.
Remember that…
children under the age of 13 are sometimes not responsible for their actions and for this reason we recommend that you always be present in the Let the two of you interact until you are sure that the game and the relationship are positive and safe for both of you.
This attention from an adult is not enough for the child to have a good relationship with his pet, it is essential to educate him in those habits that allow good care of the animal and in the same way it is necessary to teach the child respect for animals, since this will not only interfere with the pet, but also with how the child relates to the people around him.
Finally, it should be noted that the best way to teach a child how to care for pets is through example.
