Hello parents! This week, I have not been able to get puppies off my brain. Suddenly, I have this yearning for some sweet puppy love. Should a new furry family member join the party, though? There is much to consider when deciding whether to get a pet when you have small children.
Let’s get into it!
A lot of work
First, let’s talk about the time and workload. Kiddos age five and younger aren’t really able to help with pet responsibilities.
If you are considering a dog, you’ll want to plan on the adults taking the pup out to go potty and for walks each day.
Kiddos may be able to help with tiring the pup out by playing, but you will always need to supervise interactions between a new dog and your little one.
Age of the pet
If you are really set on wanting a new family pet, it could be helpful to look at older animals that are already trained and more calm in general.
Puppies and kittens are much more time consuming in terms of having to house and crate train. And life with toddlers already can be unpredictable, making it a difficult combination with young pets that you are trying to train.
If you are looking to adopt a pet, ask about the animal's history with young children.
Other animals
Also consider other animals, such as gerbils, bunnies and guinea pigs. They can be a really good alternative to a cat or dog.
They are contained to a cage or enclosure and do require a lot less time consuming tasks day to day. You should factor in the time needed for cleaning out the cage or litter box.
Also, don’t forget those caged furry friends still need and love some play time and affection.
Gentle touches
If you have decided on adding a new furry family member, it can be helpful to prepare the kiddos ahead of time. You’ll want to really hone in on the “gentle touch” of it all. Kiddos don’t have the same impulse control that grown ups acquire over our many years stomping the earth.
As much fun as it can be to surprise your little one with a new pet, it is important to prepare them and help them understand what the expectations will be in order to have a new pet in the home. That's one way to really set your kiddo up for success.
You can cover topics such as how to pet a dog or cat, not pulling on their fur. Talk to kiddos about giving the new pet space when they are sleeping or trying to eat.
Lots to consider
It can be a BIG decision, whether or not to invite a family pet into the mix of what could be considered a chaotic home. I know mine is.
For right now, I’ve come to realize that i don’t think I could handle another living creature relying on me. Will you be getting a pet soon?
I appreciate you all working through this with me, and I hope it was helpful for you as well.
Sophie Hamel is a freelance writer and works as a crisis responder. Her son is a three-year-old preschooler.