Phoenix Vet Clinic
Kids, Pets and Responsibility
Pets teach kids many lessons about life that they are eventually going to have to learn. By dealing with these issues with a family pet while young, they can learn how to react in the future when the issues involve humans, not just dogs and cats. Responsibility, the reality of death and dying, and the ability to nurture and empathize are just some of the most valuable qualities that pet ownership can instill in your child.
At about age 10, children are well prepared to deal with the unpleasant aspects of being a pet owner. At age 10, many kids are also asking to own their own pets and will promise parents that they'll feed and care for the pet. While your child is sincere in these statements, it is up to you as the parent to be sure that your child follows through. After all, failing to feed the cat or walk the dog is much more serious than forgetting to take out the trash. Forgetting to take care of a living animal isn't something you should allow your child to do. Forgetfulness should not be allowed to be used as an excuse for the mistreatment and malnourishment of your family pets.
On the same note, however, it isn't particularly good parenting to just feed the pet when your child forgets to feed it. As a parent who wants to raise a responsible child, it is your duty to make your kid feed their pet and handle all other pet-related responsibilities. If you take care of the pet, you're just letting your kid down by failing to instill responsibility with this tool (their pet).
If your child swears up and down that they will take care of their pet and you believe they are old enough to handle a pet of their own, then it is probably the right time to get them a pet. However, your job as the parent isn't done when you walk through the door and watch your child throw their arms around the new family member. Be active in your child's maturity development by firmly instilling adult qualities like responsibility with a healthy teaching tool such as a friendly pet.
If you're unsure of where to adopt a pet or what kind you should get, contact our Phoenix vet clinic today and we'll get your pointed in the right direction.