“There are some children who would rather have the cool, unique and not so much the hands-on.” And, most children want that hands-on interaction,” says Dr. What does your child want when it comes to interactions with their pet? “Some of them want that they can play with. You will also need to make sure that you are financially ready to take on a pet’s health care costs. If you choose an exotic pet, you can start by looking at the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians. You will need to make sure there is a veterinarian in your area that can help with your chosen pet. Can your family share pet care tasks in a manageable way? Are you financially prepared to take good care of the pet? Talk with your veterinarian about the care requirements for each pet you are considering.
Do you have adequate room (e.g., living space, yard space, etc.) for your chosen pet? You will also need to consider how a pet will grow and if you can accommodate them at their largest adult size.Ĭare requirements and needs. However, by a choosing a pet with a longer life span, you will also need to keep in mind that once your child leaves for college or work, you may have to become the sole provider for your family pet. Kids can get very attached to their pets, so you will need to consider your child’s emotional attachment when choosing pets for kids. Some factors to take into consideration include: Hess recommend booking a consultation appointment with a veterinarian who is experienced in the care of the species you are considering.Ĭonsider bringing a list of animals you’re interested in so you can discuss each one and determine what the best pet for your family would be. So, how should you go about finding a good match? Both Dr. What to Consider When Choosing Pets for Kids So if you are deathly afraid of snakes, they probably are not the best pets for your kids, even if the kids have their heart set on one. They need to be just as invested in the well-being and happiness of the pet as you are.Īnd most importantly, you need to be comfortable with whichever pet you decide to get. Elizabeth Mackey, veterinarian and owner of Mackey Exotic Animal Clinic in Watkinsville, Georgia, explains that it is important that your children are on board with the pet you decide to get. Everyone in the family needs to be willing to actively help with the care of the pet.ĭr. When it comes to choosing the best pets for the kids in your family, it is important that everyone is on the same page. Hess explains, “Often people get frustrated and very disappointed in these animals because isn’t what they expected.” Particularly with exotic pets, you need to know what you are getting into and what to expect from them. She adds, “Many of these animals are very smart and will give that unconditional love back to you.” Make Sure Your Kids are on Board With the Type of Pet and Work InvolvedĪs with any pet, when you are looking for the best pets for kids, you want to have a very clear idea of the pet care requirements. Laurie Hess, DVM and owner of the Veterinary Center for Birds and Exotics in Bedford Hills, New York. Being responsible for another animal … understanding that other things are relying on you to stay healthy and survive,” says Dr. And, adopting a pet that a child can also help take care of can be an enriching experience for your kid. As many adults know, caring for a pet is a rewarding and satisfying experience.
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