Pets can be wonderful companions for kids

By LINDSEY ADKISON
The Brunswick News

Owning a pet is a big commitment; once it’s in your home it becomes a member of the family.

That is why everyone, and particularly children, need to be ready before a furry friend moves in. Parents have to be certain that children are up to the challenge that comes with pet ownership.

While a child probably won’t take all of the responsibility that comes with a pet, exposure to responsibility can be extremely beneficial.

Teresa Jarrels, officer manager with S

outheast Georgia Veterinary Clinic, says that in addition to responsibility, a pet can help build a child’s self-esteem.

“They will be responsible for something, to care for it and receive love back. Pets give unconditional love. They are there for you all the time. Like anyone, children can always talk to their pets and give their deepest thoughts and feelings to them. Pets listen and care and never give any condemning statement,” she said.

As far as taking on pet-related tasks, Jarrels says that depends on the type of pet and the maturity of the child.

“I would say that (the right time occurs) when a child is at a mature enough age where they take care of their room. That could be from 6 years old up, depending on the maturity of the child,” she said.

Jarrels suggests that once parents feel a child is ready, they should choose a pet that doesn’t require a lot of care.

“For a fish, you have to feed it and clean the water. This would teach them that it is their responsibility the pet has clean water. You could work up to a rabbit, kitten or dog, whatever the family is comfortable with,” she said.

“(Parents) should set up a routine, like for feeding. Most puppies are fed twice a day, so set up a routine that ensures where they are fed in the morning and at night. And make sure that the pet stays clean. If it goes and plays in the mud, then clean it when it comes in so it won’t bring anything in house.”

Once parents feel a child is ready for a pet, Jarrels suggests visiting the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia or Glynn County Animal Control so they can gauge the child’s interaction with animals.

“See how (children) react with them before you bring them in to your household. (Animal shelters) are good about allowing folks to come in and visit. Just let them know you’re considering bringing one into the home to see how to handle them,” she said.

“Some kids are terrified of pets. Base your decision on how they behave. Then let them help pick the pet out.”

Life lessons
Three things children can learn from having a pet:

• Responsibility: Children can learn this at an early age by caring for a pet. Being responsible for another creature’s survival can teach discipline, patience, kindness and attentiveness.

• Discipline: Walking a dog, feeding a guinea pig or talking to a bird can help children remain focused on the task at hand.

• Preparation: Bringing a pet into a family can to help prepare children for real life scenarios. For example, pets can ease the transition in sharing parents’ attention with a new sibling by providing a new focus. Pets can also help children deal with medical issues and illnesses as they are exposed to routine veterinarian check-ups with their pet and treatments for various ailments.

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