Experts suggest children can establish a positive and loving relationship with an animal. This relationship increases self-esteem, and can have a socializing effect that promotes the development of a sense of responsibility. It allows for communication with other children and with the family. Chronically ill children benefit greatly from the relationship with animals: they improve motor skills, verbal interaction, increase attention, memory and reduce the feeling of loneliness and discrimination.
Experts in Veterinary Care in Honolulu state children experience joy and happiness in association with a pet, but there are circumstances such as accidents or death of the pet, which generate moments of pain. It is important in these cases, to accept and understand the sadness of children. Perhaps that this is their first death experience. They will go through a period of mourning that must be supported and contained by the adults in the family. Dogs, cats, rabbits, piglets, hamsters, canaries and fish make good pets for children.
It is not recommended to have reptiles, amphibians, chicks or ducklings as pets in families where there are children under 5 years. Before 3 years of age, children are unable to care for a pet, but after 4 years of age, kids can give food or water to an animal that requires little attention, like a goldfish or cat, for example. Children can fully take care of a pet from 6-8 years of age, when they are able to assume certain responsibilities. Your local Veterinary Care in Honolulu clinic can give you further tips if needed.
Making A Rational Choice
There are a variety of breeds of dogs and cats. It is advisable to consult your local clinic specializing in Veterinary Care in Honolulu to decide the most appropriate breed. In general, you should choose those breeds that shed their coat once or twice a year, while using periodic brushing to decrease the allergens.
Aggressive personalities of an animal should be considered as well, so if you have small children, these pets should be avoided. There are more aggressive breeds, such as the Rottweiler, Chow Chow, Doberman, Chihuahua, Pit Bull and German Shepherd. If these breeds are educated and well-mannered, they can be good companions.
Remember what is convenient: Choose a non-aggressive breed to live with. Teach the animal to be docile and obedient, respecting the limits imposed by an adult.
