5 KID-FRIENDLY PETS TO CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING FOR A PET

Have your kids been asking you about having a pet? If so, here are 5 kid-friendly pets that are not only conducive to children but will offer enjoyment to the entire family.

Dogs

The Beagle is one of the most lovable breeds. Intelligent, loyal, very social, love of children; are the most common traits of a Beagle.

The average range in height is about 13-16 inches, and they are just beautiful watchdogs too. 

Most Beagles are kept outdoors because they are energetic dogs, but they do not mind being indoors. Care and maintenance of a Beagle are affordable. Be sure that you acquire of through a breeder because pet shops usually have Beagles that originate from puppy mills.

If you purchase a beagle from a breeder, you can easily trace its lineage online by checking its pedigree.  

Fish

Fish are also affordable, easy to maintain, and available in various species. The biggest requirement is a tank with a good filtration system.

They are beautiful to look at, act as a de-stressor, and provide a soothing atmosphere.

Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, Gerbils

These rodent family members are inexpensive to purchase, but the incidentals such as cages, food, and toys may be costly. They bring lots of hours of fun for the children, but there is a drawback, they have a short lifespan. They are low maintenance; just their cage needs regular cleaning.

Gerbils tend to bite due to having large incisors. Providing them with hard vegetables like carrots and chewing toys is a good idea.

Parakeets/Parrots 

Many parakeet and parrot species may be suitable for kids. Parrots, primarily, are highly intelligent and can be taught words and phrases. Kids will find themselves spending a lot of time playing with them and trying to teach them. 

It is essential to note that a portion of the parrots on sale have been illegally caught. The best option is to acquire a parrot from a breeder because they are more suitable for training.

Parrots can be costly; what would need a steel cage and numerous toys to keep the parrot healthy and occupied. Water, food, and dishes for a bath are also required.

Whatever the choice, parrot or parakeet, it is important to ascertain if they are healthy. Does it show any oddities that may signal a problem, and have they been adequately cared for by the breeder?

Cats

If you have decided to adopt a cat from a shelter, keep in mind that it will need some training, although they are very playful and energetic. 

If you choose an adult cat, it's a good practice to ask the people at the animal shelter where the cat came from; how it interacts with other animals, and its overall health. Cats are very kid-friendly, and they develop what cannot break the bond.

Before you choose a cat for adoption, make sure no one in the family is allergic to cats.

The most important thing when adopting or buying a pet is to discuss the responsibilities that come with it. Teaching children to care and be careful with the pet can be a lengthy process for some. It is often that pets retaliate when they get hurt.

Although fish are easy to maintain, cats, dogs, hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs will frequently be handled by the kids. 

Teaching them the proper way to interact with these pets provides a fun experience and allows kids the opportunity to learn about different species, breeds, and characteristics, which can later encourage them to learn more about another species.