Professor Vicki Hutton explains what families should consider before bringing a pet home, and why adults must take responsibility for their care.
When are children ready for a pet?
Actually, the question should be are you ready for a pet?
Because children model their behaviour off adults, there are important considerations for families thinking about introducing an animal into their home.
Before adopting a pet, adults should consider time, costs, housing, veterinary care and the animal’s long-term needs. A child’s enthusiasm cannot replace an adult’s commitment.
“Children will learn from the way adults treat animals,” says Hutton.
“So, it is very important not to take on an animal if he or she is going to be emotionally or physically neglected or abandoned.
“That does not teach children responsibility and can have long term consequences for the animal and the child’s perceptions of the role of animals.”
“Animals are not commodities to be used for company or entertainment then put away until needed again.
“Cute puppies and kittens grow into unique individuals who deserve to have their needs met for the next 10, 15 or 20+ years.”
Hutton explains how behavioural issues such as separation anxiety, barking and anxiety-related aggression can all result in animals being relinquished when they grow out of the cute phase and assert their basic needs.
Teaching children to respect pets and their boundaries
A child may want to cuddle a dog or pick up a cat, but the animal may not welcome that interaction. Teach children to pause, observe body language and allow animals to move away.
Explain that a wagging tail does not always mean a dog is relaxed. Stiff posture, attempts to escape, growling or hiding can indicate discomfort. Children should never approach unfamiliar animals without an adult’s guidance.
Supervise interactions between young children and pets. Give animals quiet places where they can rest without interruption.
Explore the broader story in Raising animal-friendly kids: how to teach children kindness to animals.
For the next step, read our guide to choosing a family pet.
