Contents
The essential questions before choosing a pet
An animal is a living being that must be taken care of throughout its life. This is why you have to ask yourself the right questions before starting:
– What is the life expectancy of the chosen companion?
– How much time do you have to devote to him?
– Do you have the necessary budget (veterinarian, food, flea treatment, dewormer)?
– What will we do with the animal when we go on vacation or on weekends?
– Are all family members ready to welcome him?
– Is any member of the family allergic?
Remember that a child’s promises only last a while … Parents usually end up taking care of the most restrictive care, such as taking the dog out in the rain, emptying the litter box, cleaning the cage or giving to to eat. It will therefore be necessary to teach your child that his pet is not a toy, that he must take care of it and educate it.
Chat
The cat is the most common pet in our homes. In general, the cat gets along perfectly with children, he likes to have fun with them and to be petted. Its maintenance is, moreover, less restrictive than that of a dog. On the other hand, the child is dependent on the goodwill of the animal. He can’t force a cat to play or stroke him if he doesn’t want to.
The dog
When a dog shares your life, especially in his childhood, his memory is permanently imbued with his company. Be careful, however, because adopting a dog represents a real constraint that must be measured before starting. If you can’t take it out three times a day, for example, you’d better avoid it. Likewise, a large dog will not be very happy in a small apartment. Regarding the breed, find out beforehand from a professional (veterinarian, breeder). And do not hesitate, in case of difficulty, to seek advice from dog trainers.
The guinea pig
Tender and affectionate animal who “talks” a lot. Ideal whatever the character of the child. The guinea pig is an animal that loves to be petted and kissed. On the other hand, he can be quite timid and taming him takes time and patience. The guinea pig does not like solitude, if it lives alone it will need attention and live near humans. It is a very good choice for a child from 4 years old, provided that the parents do not allow him to handle the animal without supervision: fractures are quite frequent.
The dwarf rabbit
Very gentle, it seems he can appease the most unruly children. He likes to snuggle up in the arms. Affectionate, intelligent, curious and very sociable, the dwarf rabbit is an ideal companion for children from 4 years old.
The hamster
Very active, the hamster likes to climb, run and antics! Watching it live is a real spectacle, but it is difficult to handle. Also be careful, he lives at night. So avoid putting it in the child’s room. Children quickly tire of this solitary animal, which does not necessarily seek contact.
House mouse
Energetic, lively, intelligent, the house mouse is a small animal very popular with children. Its daytime activity makes it an interesting and communicative companion for a toddler.
Le rat
The repugnance that it generally inspires in adults makes it an animal not very present in our homes. Yet he is a very pleasant little animal, remarkably intelligent and very sociable. He is also very affectionate but a little fragile, and therefore very delicate to handle. Older children and teenagers appreciate it very much.
Ferrets
Don’t let the fad of these new pets (NAC) fool you! This animal is rather intended for adults and adolescents, given its more independent character.
Fish
The actual aquarium hobby is primarily intended for adults or adolescents. Small aquariums with one or two fish may be suitable for all children, regardless of their age.
The pet’s health check-up
The first instinct, as soon as you buy your pet, is of course to visit a veterinarian. You will complete his health record together. The opportunity to make the first vaccinations but also to know the sanitary measures to be put into practice on a daily basis at home. And don’t forget the check-ups for deworming and treating infections that can infect other pets and family members.
Parents and children should also have their vaccinations up to date, especially tetanus. The risk is all the more accentuated in the event of bites or scratches.
If you have a jar at home, be careful when putting your hands in the aquarium. Even minimal trauma can lead to skin damage (fortunately benign most of the time).
The handling of birds and rodents, which carry many germs, bacteria and parasites, must also be done with the greatest care.
Pets, carriers of disease
Reptiles are not forgotten, even if they only make up about 5% of pets. Here too, precautions should be taken because the vast majority of reptiles are carriers of salmonellosis. The solution to limit the risk of infections? Obtain the animals in healthy animal facilities and wash your hands well after each handling.
As for spiders and other insects, it is especially important to pay attention to bites and poisonous stings, often very painful, which can cause a more important reaction.
Learn more about pets
www.spa.asso.fr Society for the Protection of Animals, to find the SPA refuge closest to you.
www.afiracservices.com French association for information and research on companion animals, for more information on the human / animal relationship.
www.scc.asso.fr Central Canine Society. Information and information for buyers.
Do you want to talk about it between parents? To give your opinion, to bring your testimony? We meet on https://forum.parents.fr.