Newsletters

Healthy Child Fall/Winter 2005

"Mom, Can We Keep The Goldfish?”

Dear Parents,
How many of us have been in the situation where our child wins a goldfish at the school fair or local carnival, brings it home, and we say, “Now what?” Obtaining a pet is a major decision for a family and many factors should be considered before making that commitment. Many parents already had a pet before their children were born, and in that case, hopefully the pet will continue to get the attention it needs, and the child and animal will get along without problems. Remember, a cherished pet becomes a member of the family and teaches children invaluable lessons about caring for a living creature, and giving and receiving unconditional love. Pets also teach about the life cycle, companionship, responsibility and respect.

Choosing a pet begins with asking the question, why do we want a pet? Considering the financial and time commitment pets require, animals should not be gotten simply because they are cute and cuddly. You must have a love of animals in order to give them the caring attention and training they need. As long as all family members are consulted and there are no health risks, parents should choose a pet based on family lifestyle, household space, costs, grooming requirements, children’s ages, and most importantly, which animal provides personal emotional satisfaction. Is a dog, cat, hamster, bird or fish, best for your family? Once the decision concerning which pet will be chosen is made, libraries, the Internet, breeders and veterinarians are good resources to find out if the pet is right for your family situation.

Studies show that a wanted pet provides health benefits to adults, like lowering blood pressure and reducing depression. Children raised with pets show benefits also. Pets provide an education regarding trusting relationships, responsibility, compassion, empathy, and can contribute to a child’s self-esteem and self-confidence. Children can confide in pets and learn a respect for other living things. They can also learn a life lesson about loss if a pet is lost or dies. The experience of having a pet provides memories that the child will take into adulthood. “The relationship between humans and pets is one of reciprocal love. As you care for your pet, it rewards you with unwavering friendship and loyalty.” Keep in mind that caring for a pet with young children in the household requires important guidelines:

• Since very young children (under 3-4 years old) do not have the maturity to control their aggressive and angry impulses, they should be monitored with pets.
• Always supervise children around dogs and animals. Children under five will not always understand or remember instructions. Keeping them safe is an adult’s job!
• Do not leave your baby or young child alone with a pet.
• Keep your pet’s food and toys away from your child.
• Young children (under 10) are rarely able to care for a large animal, a cat or a dog, on their own.
• Parents must oversee the pet’s care even if they believe their child is old enough to care for a pet.
• Never tease an animal. Never grab an animal by the feet, ears or tail. Never disturb an animal that is eating or sleeping.
• If children become lax in caring for a pet, parents have to take over the responsibility on their own. Parents must be responsible role models in the care of a pet.

In conclusion, if safety and health issues are met, if pets are being properly and happily cared for, and love of animals is the primary reason for bringing the animal into your home, having a pet can bring an enriching and joyful quality of life for the whole family!

BARBARA PODBERESKY, R.N., B.A.
NURSING COORDINATOR
PEDIATRIC HEALTH CENTER

References:
1) familyresource.com, 2) www.mothercare.com, 3) www.iams.com

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