Most children like to have a pet. Are you considering on introducing a new member to the family? What are the best pets for your kids?
Keeping a pet is beneficial to both the family and the child, not to mention that it does help build family bonds. “Whenever I ask children and parents if their pets are truly part of the family, most of them seem surprised-and almost offended-at the question,” cited Gail F. Melson, PhD, professor emeritus of developmental studies at Purdue University, in Indiana. Almost all answered, “Of course they are!”
Pet ownership can be a challenging, comforting, and valuable experience to your child. Just make sure that you have acquired the pet suitable for families with kids. What is the easiest animal to take care of? Are there low-maintenance pets for kids? We at UKPets have listed the best pets for kids under 10.
1. Fish
Keeping fish as pets is not just recommended for first-time owners but to kids as well.
“They can teach care and responsibility without needing large amounts of time and upkeep. The equipment required for a simple tank is also fairly cost-effective, and easy to set up,” says veterinarian David Gething.
In comparison to other furry pets, you will not worry about separation anxiety or destructive behaviours when leaving fish alone at home. They do not require grooming and outdoor responsibilities. Moreover, they are known to bring a calming effect to anyone watching them serenely glide through the water.
There are varieties of fish that you can choose for your child. Some are playful and can be trained to perform tricks. The most recommended fish for kids or even to first-time owners are the betta fish. They look exquisite in their long flowing fins and are available in varying colours. When properly cared for, it can live up to two to four years. However, you may want to put each fish in an individual tank as betta fish can be very territorial.
The following are other fish breeds suitable for kids:
- Angel fish
- Goldfish
- Guppies
- Molly fish
- Platy fish
Are you thinking of acquiring one? Check out fish for sale.
2. Birds
If your child wants a long-term pet that does not demand regular interaction, birds might be a good idea. Birds are known to live a very long time and can possibly even outlive you. They can are capable to treat you and your child as one of their ‘flock’. Hand raised birds make the best pets with good temperament. It is important to remember that they are sensitive to sudden changes in temperature and diet.
Bird ownership of your kids should be supervised. Seven years of age is the ideal time for kids to rear a bird. It does, however, depend on your child’s maturity and the particular breed. The following birds should fit in well with your family:
- African greys
- Budgie
- Canaries
- Cockatiels
- Lovebirds
- Finches
They have the sweetest personality especially the Cockatiels. They do not require much grooming needs compared to other furry pets. It only calls responsibility for an occasional cleaning of their cages. In addition, they are very social and can be extremely vocal and noisy.
Are you thinking of introducing birds in your family? Choose one amongst birds for sale.
3. Dogs
Dogs are a popular choice for pets in the world. It is unsurprising why your kids are begging for years to have little balls of snuggles. In fact, movies often portrayed kids having close relationships with dogs. However, a consideration on which dog to get should depend on which dog breeds are compatible with children such as Beagles and Labradors.
In addition, keeping dogs as pets can be advantageous for you kid. Here are a few reasons:
- Dogs help kids develop patience, compassion, and empathy. Research in the U.S. and U.K. showed a correlation between pet attachment and empathy scores. By definition of empathy, it goes beyond what we can express with words. It involves non-verbal communication through facial expressions, gestures, and body language. Growing up with pets makes kids sensible beings.
- Another set of research was conducted proving how dogs support emotional well-being. For instance, when a dog leans its head on the child’s lap reduces stress.
- Dogs come with responsibility. Kids become reliable when given duties to remember such as feeding, providing water, and cleaning up after the dog. It largely contributes to the child’s personality development.
We have a collection of blogs citing tips in rearing dogs.
The Ultimate New Puppy Preparation Checklist
Dog Training: 8 Golden Rules That Can Turn Anyone Into an Alpha Dog
Are you ready to have one? Check out dogs for sale.
4. Cats
Cats work best for busy families. It is one of the reasons why cats are a popular choice for pets along with dogs. They require less maintenance and no need for regular walking. In fact, we have discussed how to litter train a kitten when you are at work in our previous blog.
As with dogs, cats offer the same sense of companionship, empathy, responsibility. Cats make the best small pets for cuddling. There are ways you can let your kid engage with playful cats using:
- Wands or rods
- Ping-pong balls
- Crumpled paper
Cats seek control over their environment. That being said, it is important to provide a “safe place” for your feline to retreat to when the mood sets in.
Do you think it is the right pet for your family? Take your pick amongst cats for sale.
5. Guinea pigs or cavies
Guinea pigs make great pets for kids. They are relatively friendly and entertaining for your child. Here are some takeaway points why:
- Guinea pigs have unique traits despite looking the same. Spend time before acquiring one and see if you want an outgoing one or a shy and reserved cavy.
- They are unlikely to bite. However, an interaction between cavies and your children should still be supervised to ensure safety.
- They relish cuddles. They are less nervous when carried compared to rabbits and hamsters.
- Ever heard of “popcorning”? This is a distinctive trait of guinea pigs where they may jump over and over, quickly running forward and backward or kicking their front and back legs when excited. It is pretty entertaining to watch.
Moreover, take note that cavies do not produce their own source of Vitamin C. Therefore, please be responsible to add it on its diet.
Are you ready to take one? Check out guinea pigs for sale.
