Kids are naturally fascinated by the looks and habits of animals and having a pet of their own can be one of the pleasures of childhood. Parent should be aware of the benefits the child can gain from caring for an animal. Caring for a dog, a cat, a hamster or any other animals would be fun. Aside from the fact that the child will learn to respect small creatures, the kid will learn to be responsible too. Unlike toys that can be left on the shelf and retrieved when the kid is in the mood to play, these living creatures would need constant care.
The decision to get the child a pet should not be made on an impulse as there are some things that need consideration. Influenced by friends or by books, a child may have set his/her mind to care for a certain kind of animals but the parent may think otherwise. It is also common for a child to expect a lot from the animal. The child may want an animal she/he can interact with or one that can learn tricks. If the animal chosen does not fit these requirements, the child will certainly be frustrated. The age of the child (and the maturity), the amount of time that can be spent caring for the animal has to be considered as well. Some animals would need constant attention while others can be left unattended for quite a while as long as food and water is provided. A kid that is at school all day has to have a pet that can be left unattended in its cage.
Caring for the pet would be an ideal bonding moment for the family. True, the kid would have the responsibility of caring for the animal but the parents’ guidance would still be necessary.