Is Your Family Ready for a New Pet?
A precious pet can be a wonderful addition to a loving family like yours. Little kids may beg for a new baby kitten or puppy, but before you give in to their wishes, you must take into consideration whether or not your family is actually ready to take on the responsibility of becoming caretakers to a new pet. Here are a few questions to ask yourself and your family to see if the time is right for a new (furry) addition to the household.
How Old Are the Kids?
Very small children and toddlers may ask for a pet, but do they really realize that they are more than live “stuffed animals”? Pets require a gentle touch and lots of patience. If you have had a pet before, your little one is likely ready for another, but unless your child is old enough to understand that the pet is a living creature, you may want to take your time. Visit friends with pets or go to the shelter to get your child prepared for the possibility of adopting a new pet. Or start with one that doesn’t need much interaction, such as a fish.
Do You Have the Time?
A new pet, particularly a new puppy or kitten needs special attention and that means you’ll need to devote a good deal of time to training, feeding, and all that comes with it. You may need to take time off work or change your hours. A new pet may interfere with your child’s school or daycare schedule or nap times. Be sure you are able to be flexible enough to tend to a new pet in the manner the pet deserves.
Do You Have the Space?
Is there room in your home or yard for a pet to run and play? Is your home safe for a pet? Does your landlord allow pets? There will be a lot of pre-planning to go through before bringing a new pet home. Do your homework and make certain your home is pet-friendly and safe. You’ll need to prep your home before bringing your new pet into it.
What is the Best Type of Pet for You?
Does anyone in your family have allergies? What type of temperament would suit your family best? A lap pet? A runner? Do you have the time or money for frequent grooming? These questions and more will help you select the type/breed of pet best suited for your family. Once you narrow it down, you are ready to find the pet that is waiting for a new family… yours!
How did you know when your family was ready for a new pet? For more info like this, please visit All My Children.
By: Melissa A. Kay
