How to Choose the Right Pet for Your Child?

May 27, 2021 Leave a Comment

The national pandemic’s effect on our child’s social and emotional health is inevitable. Today, children miss out on many social opportunities because of the threat the pandemic poses until now.

If you’re worried about the negative social and emotional effects of this pandemic, maybe you should consider having a pet in your home. During trying times, pets can offer comfort, companionship, and love that your child deserves to have right now.

In fact, new research points out that family pets help children better manage feelings of loneliness and stress, all of which have been exacerbated by online or virtual classes in this pandemic.

How to Choose the Right Pet for Your Child?

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And because pets offer people a multitude of health benefits, including decreased blood pressure, improved social skills, and reduced feelings of loneliness, the whole world rejoiced when the World Health Organization (WHO) announced that there is no evidence that companion animals can be infected with COVID-19.

Now, if you’re convinced about getting a pet, then your next concern might be choosing the right type for your child. In this article, we will discuss the different considerations you should factor in your decision-making process, as well as the various types of house pets that you may like for your home.

How to Choose the Right Pet for Your Child?

It’s a Family Decision

More often than not, children will request a pet that they like. While answering your child’s wish sounds like a great idea, choosing the proper pet is a collective decision. It should be a balance between your child’s wants and your family’s lifestyle, budget, expectations, and level of experience.

When you think about it, taking care of a pet is like parenting—it involves patience, labor, money, empathy, and stress. It’s years and years of responsibility. If you’re ready for it, then ponder on the following questions below.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Here are some guide questions to help you figure out the right type of pet for the whole family:

What are you looking for in a pet? A low- or high-maintenance one?
Where will your ideal pet spend most of its time? In an enclosed space or do you prefer wandering around the house?
Do you want a small, handy pet? Or a big, fluffy one?
What kind of commitment are you looking for? Do you prefer a pet with a short life span or someone that can live for a long time?
How much time and effort are you willing to put in? Are you willing to participate and go to great lengths in taking care of the pet? Or will your child (or children) be entirely responsible for it?

Popular Pets in India

After pondering on the questions above, check which of these pets fit your overall preference:

Dog – They are loyal, playful, and loving creatures that come in small or big types. Dogs are primarily kept for long-term companionship.

Cat – Indian households usually have a penchant for exclusive animals like the Persian cat, known as the most expensive cat breed. They are low maintenance compared to dogs.

Rabbit – Rabbits are alert, playful, and adorable, making them one of the best small pets in the country. They are gentle, timid, and easy to maintain, too, making them perfect for little children!

Are you considering to have a pet at home and yet to decide on it? Here is a complete guide on How to Choose the Right Pet for Your Child?

About the Author

Mike loves dogs and the special connection they share with humans. He regularly writes about dog accessories, and pet training on his website, Dog Embassy, to guide pet owners in their dog parenthood journey.