Pets and Children :: A Romanticized Concept?

If you ask any group of children to come up with the top five things they want most, invariably that list will include some sort of pet. And yet, if you ask this same group of children who has owned a pet, you'll be surprised to find that most, if not all, already have (or have had) a pet. Pressed further, you will also discover a marked lack of enthusiasm and interest in their current or past pet experiences, and an adamant assurance that things would be different, if only their parents would give in to their demands.

Movies, television and media seem to romanticize the concept of 'a boy and his dog' or 'a little girl and her pony', yet many parents note a marked contrast from what is depicted and the reality of the situation. Just as with a new toy, a new pet can invoke promises of everything from proper pet care to good behavior. Sadly, the novelty of a new pet wears off just as fast, and many a parent is left to deal with a forgotten puppy, or a kitten that isn't quite as cute when it scratches.

The Reality of Pets and Children

So what can parents do when the topic of pets comes up, as it undoubtedly will? Some parents can stave off the topic while the children are smaller, promising that at a vague point in the future, when the kids are older, they may broach the topic again. Of course, this will only hold them off for so long. When the topic of owning a pet does arise in the future, parents are wise to sit down with their children and have a serious conversation about the commitment and care involved in taking on the responsibility of a pet. Remember, that in their excitement at the mere fact that the topic is even being considered, your kids will likely promise to and agree to nearly anything. But more is needed.

Speaking from personal experience, we have never given into our children's pet of choice, which is a dog. We have always had a cat, who is a very valued member of our family and our children love her dearly. We have impressed upon our kids that because we live such active lifestyles and go away alot, it would not be fair to own a dog, which would require so much attention. We have dog sat before which fulfills some of the pet need. The other thing that dogsitting impresses on our children is how much of a commitment it is to own a dog and how restricting to our lifestyle it can be.

Depending on the age of the child, it is important to research their pet of choice and the child must fully appreciate the impact a pet can have on their lives. Review this information as a family and discuss the pros and cons of the sort of pet that's up for discussion. Also, this is a good time to bring up the issue of cost, both for acquiring the pet and for feeding and grooming, vaccinations and other vet fees and licensing. Wise parents will stress the degree of commitment and responsibility required and possibly request a reasonable monetary contribution by the children.

In the end, if you're sufficiently confident in your children and the commitment they have made, then the next step is to give in and get a pet!

And remember, no matter what your kids have agreed to, they WILL find a way of shirking their responsibility and in the end, the pet or pets, will be YOUR problem. So make sure that you take part in the selection process, and remember to have fun with your new pet!!