PETS AND KIDS

Whether they swim, hop, slither or walk on four furry feet, having a pet can be an enriching experience for children. They provide plenty of opportunities to teach children responsibility and give them a sense of purpose.

With a pet, children can receive unconditional love and have a confidant with whom they can share their feelings. Pets can provide stress relief and be a forever friend devoid of judgements.

In fact, one study published in the United Kingdom by Dr June McNicholas and Dr Glyn Collis, found that pets are nearly as important as parents in a small child's life.

The study asked children who they would turn to in a troublesome situation. Pets featured in children's top 10 replies.

Seven-year-olds said that they would take their dog (second to their father) as their protector if walking down a dark alley and children considered their cat just as important as their mother as a source of comfort in times of stress and illness.

However, when it comes to selecting a pet, it's important to keep the family's lifestyle in mind. Parents should research the pet and the breed they are interested in and while cats and dogs may spring to mind as cuddly choices for children, there are other good options for kids such as frogs and fish.

Once the pet has been selected, take care in introducing it to the rest of the family. Dogs should be leashed when introduced to a child. All pets should be under the supervision and control of an adult while another adult stays by the child. The child should not be forced to approach the pet, nor should the pet be forced to approach the child.

Adults need to think carefully about the responsibilities to assign their younger children when it comes to the pet's care.

Feeding and brushing are two activities an adult should always handle, as well as cleaning up after a pet, whether it be the litter box or picking up dog faeces in the yard. An adult should also be present when a child is walking a dog. Be prepared for the unexpected, such as an approach by an unleashed animal or sudden noises.

Children also should not be expected to bathe or clip a pet, trim its toenails or remove ticks. Ensuring responsible pet care within the household will bring endless hours of joy to the children providing memories that will last a lifetime.

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