addictions.net - eating disorder & honesty recovery: pets

Saturday, October 6, 2012

Friday, September 28, 2012

Choosing the Right Family Pet

by Maria Khalife

Animals are such agreeable friends – they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.~ George Elliot

Pets are a wonderful addition to a family. They provide joy and they provide a way for children to unfold loving responsibility for another. Having a pet is a wonderful way for parents to teach children all of the “go-withs” of pet ownership beside the obvious benefits of having a playmate.

Dogs Dogs are one of the first thought-of choices for a pet because they are adoringly loveable and friendly, in addition to the fact that they bond and guard the children. Dogs can be a lot of work because they require socialization, walking, feeding and play times. If your schedule doesn’t allow for this or you are living in a place where it’s difficult for a dog to run and play, dogs may not be the best choice.

If your town has a dog park, visit with your child and see all the breeds available in action. Here, you can decide which size dog will work; which breed would be the best; and how a dog would fit in with your family. Choose well! You’re looking at a 15 year obligation and the start-up training of the dog and your children takes 6 to 12 months of dedicated effort.Cats Cats come with fewer requirements than dogs do, but they still provide friendship for your kids. A cat only needs feeding, grooming (which they provide mostly themselves, but love an occasional brushing) and a clean litter box. If you aren’t up for the high maintenance that a dog needs, you might consider getting a cat for your family.

Small pets in cages

If you want to start small to develop the responsibilities of feeding and cleaning up after a pet, a gerbil, hamster, guinea pig, or rabbit might be just the thing. If your children can master this responsibility, it might be time to step it up and then get a dog or a cat.

Quiet Pets

Reptiles, amphibians and fish can provide the joy that other, un-caged and more vocal pets like cats and dogs provide. You have to be ready to supervise the cleaning of their cages, terrariums, or aquariums with regularity. Many parents know little about taking care of this kind of pet so it’s a great idea to research that out together either online of at a library.

I wish you well in the selection of a great addition to your family!