{"id":328,"date":"2015-03-19T05:33:51","date_gmt":"2015-03-19T12:33:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rocklinranchvet.com\/blog\/?p=328"},"modified":"2024-07-25T04:38:22","modified_gmt":"2024-07-25T11:38:22","slug":"kids-and-pet-care-one-big-happy-family","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rocklinranchvet.com\/blog\/kids-and-pet-care-one-big-happy-family\/","title":{"rendered":"Kids and Pet Care: One Big Happy Family"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Rocklin_iStock_000038997540_Large\"<\/a>Most pet lovers first connect with animals during childhood \u2013 and for many of us, the lasting impression of that experience endures far into adulthood. There\u2019s no doubt that children and pets have a mutually beneficial relationship, but it\u2019s not always one that comes automatically.<\/p>\n

With the right recipe of awareness, patience, time, and trust, you can easily integrate your kids into the daily routines your family pet depends on. Making the effort to involve your kids with your pet\u2019s care will not only help to endear your pet to your children, but will also teach your them about the wonders and responsibilities of pet ownership and the human-animal bond.<\/p>\n

Getting Started<\/b><\/h3>\n

Whether your child is showing an interest in more hands-on care with your family pet, or has hopes for a new adoption, there are certain steps you should take to help everyone succeed.<\/p>\n

First, encourage<\/a> your child to learn about your pet\u2019s species or breed through books, magazines, and videos. If your pet has specific needs, be open and honest with your child about those needs, and help him or her incorporate that information into their care. Over time, your pet will learn to trust your child and the foundation for life-long loyalty will be established.<\/p>\n

Boundaries and Tasks<\/b><\/p>\n

Shelter pets<\/a> can be extraordinary family pets provided their temperament has been tested to not only tolerate children, but adore them. Kids love to hug, tug, nudge, make unpredictable noises and movements, and generally have little appreciation for boundaries.<\/p>\n

Your pet may tolerate this for awhile, but this type of stimulation can inspire impatience, irritability, and aggression even in the sweetest and most loving animal.<\/p>\n

The bottom line for all interactions between pets and children is constant adult supervision. Depending on your child\u2019s age, he or she will enjoy feeding, watering, walking, or playing with your family pet and may easily and quickly graduate to:<\/p>\n