Raising kids with pets
Raising kids with pets is a very controversial topic because people are firmly on one side of this decision: waiting to have pets after kids or getting pets before kids. I understand the reasons for wanting to wait, namely worrying the pet will not handle being “replaced” by a baby or that they will not bond well with the child. For me though, I think with proper training and preparation, pets can provide kids with some well deserved love!
One of the biggest reasons for having pets first is because many people are getting married later and so also having kids later. This leaves people living alone or without kids and feeling lonely. Adopting a pet can cure loneliness and help teach people how to properly take care of another living thing. I am not comparing kids to a pet, but I would agree that it is a stepping stone. You must teach a pet how to behave, take care of their physical health and give them love and affection. I do believe this prepares people to teach, care, and love a child.
When you have a pet before kids it also helps you become a better planner. When you have a pet, you cannot leave on vacation or even your house without thinking about when you will be back. Dogs need to be walked or have time to run around every day. They need to be fed twice a day and be let out to relieve themselves every 4-5 hours. This helps you prepare for the planning and it will take care of future kids.
Having a pet before you have kids can be a learning opportunity for your pet and your child. The pet learns how to be gentle and patient, while the child learns to be gentle and safe around animals. Cats and dogs in the house at a young age can also help prevent allergies. Nora has a lot of allergies, even to cats, but she is not allergic to dogs like I am. As your kids get older you can have your pet be a part of your child’s growing responsibilities. They can start by feeding them and learn how to take them on walks, pick up their droppings and so forth.
My kids love our dog, Flash, and he is a great addition to our family. I understand having a dog or any pet with young children is not for everyone, butthe love I see between my kids and our dog is so precious to me and I would not change it for the world.