BY JULIE YOUNG

At some point, most children express a desire to care for a pet. Although they promise to feed, water, and play with the proposed animal, a pet is a big responsibility, and it’s important to make this step a positive experience for everyone involved. 

Age appropriate

Experts say it is important to consider the child’s age and ability to handle simple chores without adult supervision. Are you willing to pick up the slack for the duties they cannot perform? Does your child treat animals with respect and care? If the answer is yes, it may be time to introduce them to their first pet. 

Consider which animal

Next, it’s important to choose the right pet for your child. While it may be tempting to bring home a puppy or a kitten, these animals require significant daily care and are better suited to the whole family. A beta fish can be a great choice for the youngest pet owners, who may enjoy observing and feeding an animal that does not require much upkeep. A low-maintenance pet such as a hermit crab, small lizard, or rodent (including gerbils, hamsters, and mice) is a great “first pet” option because it can withstand some handling without the need for long walks and extensive grooming. 

If your child is not quite ready for a dog or cat, consider a guinea pig. Often overlooked, these larger rodents make great first pets for school-aged children. They are not prone to biting, have adorable personalities, and enjoy human interaction (especially hide-and-seek). They also provide excellent practice in responsible pet ownership and offer a preview of what it might be like when it’s time to consider a bigger pet down the road.