Many children want pets. In order not to experience any surprises in retrospect, you should think through the decision well. We have put together a few points for you:
WHICH PETS ARE SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN?
- Cat: Cats are ideal pets for children. The house tigers love to play and need regular petting. However, cats also have their own mind and need a place to retreat. Cats don’t like being followed at all. It is best to never leave small children alone with cats, as they could behave clumsily, thereby frightening or injuring the cat.
- Dog: A very intimate bond can develop between children and dogs. Dogs are usually very child-friendly. From the age of approx. 10 years, children can be given joint responsibility for the family dog. Infants and children up to 10 years of age should only be with dogs under supervision. Children must adhere to certain rules when dealing with dogs – e.g., do not tease the dog, do not take away any objects, do not disturb it while eating, do not kick or yell, etc.
- Guinea pigs: Guinea pigs are suitable for children from approx. 6 years. The rodents need regular employment and can also become very trusting. But it can also be that a guinea pig always remains a bit shy and fearful. Guinea pigs are flight animals and do not like loud noises or screams. The animals can easily injure themselves, so respectful and gentle handling is necessary.
- Rabbits: Rabbits are shy and fearful animals and are therefore not particularly suitable for children. Most long ears do not like to be picked up and carried around at all. They don’t always want to be petted either. Rabbits take up a lot of space and should never be kept without conspecifics.
- Ornamental fish: fish come in all possible shapes and colors. An aquarium has a calming effect on the children. However, this involves a certain amount of work, as an aquarium has to be cleaned regularly.
- Mouse: Mice should only be kept in groups (preferably several females).
- They are very lively and nimble.
- They can become very tame.
- They tend to be crepuscular and nocturnal.
- The cage should be designed in a varied way (e.g., impeller) and cleaned regularly.
- Hamsters: Hamsters are nocturnal animals and are very rarely seen during the day. Therefore, they are not particularly suitable for children. The rodents are more suitable for watching than for cuddling.
- Birds: Birds are fascinating animals, but they require a lot of care and are not suitable for cuddling. Ornamental birds are not suitable for small children. The feathered friends need a spacious cage and make a lot of noise at times. Budgies and Co. should not be kept alone.
When choosing a pet, consider the space requirements and the time required to care for the animals. Take the child to a shelter. There the offspring can make their first contact with different animal species – a decision is often easier.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF PETS FOR CHILDREN?
Pets often have a positive effect on children’s development. The advantages are:
- Pets can become close friends that the children can also confide in
- Children learn to take responsibility.
- Children with pets are often more active.
- Animals have a calming effect on the children and can also provide comfort.
- Children who own pets are often more sociable and feel less alone.
DO ALL MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY AGREE?
Getting a pet should be a family decision. Ensure that everyone is okay with your pet and that it is a species that the whole family will enjoy. It should also be clarified whether no family member is allergic.
HOW OLD DO PETS GET?
Life expectancy should be taken into account. On the one hand, a pet can be part of the family for a long period of time; on the other hand, if the life expectancy is low, the death of the beloved animal must be expected.
- For example, a guinea pig can live up to 8 years.
- Cats live on average 10-15 years and
- Dogs 8-15 years old.
- Small animals such as mice and hamsters, on the other hand, only live to be 2-3 years old.
PROPER HANDLING OF THE PET
The children must learn to treat their pets properly and respectfully. Parents should show the offspring how to approach the animals and how to treat them appropriately. A pet takes time and is not a toy!
In your warehouse, you will find numerous products for your pet (toys, animal care products, enclosures, and much more). Make sure that the pet only gets high-quality food. With Alpha Pet Food, pets get all the nutrients they need. Ask our specialist advisors!