Why Kids and Pets Make a Great Mix

Ever since I was a child, I have always been drawn to animals. I now witness the same connection to animals in my own kids. Whether your kids have a natural desire toward animals or it needs to be developed, kids and pets can make a great mix.

Pets and kids can create a lasting bond. Chances are, you have witnessed a friend or family member bonding with a pet. Perhaps it was you. The bond that occurs between animals and their caregivers is undeniable. This is true, whether the owner is a kid or adult. When your child and a pet grow up together, they can become inseparable, almost like siblings.

Pets and kids understand each other. Just like kids can develop friendships with other kids, the same can happen with animals. With friendship becomes an understanding that can only come from a close relationship. This is good both for the animals, as well as your kids. Whether your child has a guinea pig, dog, cat, rat, or other animal, you'll begin to notice the special way they communicate with each other. Whenever my daughter's guinea pig sees her, he gets very excited and starts jumping up and down with squeals of delight. He only has that reaction with her. She knows what each of his sounds and actions mean and can tend to his needs by paying attention to these cues.

Kids learn responsibility by having pets. When kids are taught to care for pets properly, they learn responsibility. Pets are almost like having children. They have needs to tend to every single day. Basic needs like food, water, love, and a clean habitat are essential. Then, there are more things to do, such as training, grooming, and exercise. Each pet has its own needs. But they all create extra tasks for kids. This is a very good lesson in what it's like to be responsible for another's well-being. Be sure that if your child adopts a pet, the duties are left up to him. Parents may need to do certain things, especially at first. But let your child do as much as possible.

Pets are good preparation for family and careers. Speaking of being responsible for another, pet care helps prepare kids for their future. While pets and human babies are different, raising a pet helps prepare kids for potentially raising kids later in life. It also helps them practice essential skills, such as follow-through, that will be ideal for employment. A child who is used to completing required tasks every day is probably more likely to succeed in the business world than one who has less responsibility.

Kids and pets both need plenty of love and both provide it. Your child can be an important source of love and enrichment for a pet. The pet will in turn do the same for your child. While kids can and should get love from family and friends, the love a pet has its place as well. One can never have too much love. That goes for both kids and pets. If your child has a pet, encourage daily cuddling or other means of affection. It will depend on the pet as to the types of affection given. For instance, a child may talk soothingly to a turtle. But he can hug and pet a cat or dog.

Extra tips:

• Not all kids should own pets. Some will not get along with them or be responsible.
• Pet responsibility should be taught to the kids before adopting them and continuously.
• Not all pets will be good with kids. Test the relationship and choose pets based on that.

More from Lyn:

Helping Kids Care for Their First Hamster

Parents, Please Educate Your Kids Before Adopting a Pet

How to Tell Your Child 'No' to Having a Pet