Should You Buy Your Child a Puppy
It might be one of the most terrifying things a parent will hear “Daddy, Can I have a Puppy”. It’s usually followed by a long pleaseeeee, and of ‘course I will feed it’.
Sharon Bergen, senior vice president of education and training for Knowledge Learning Corporation. The United States leading provider of early childhood care and education. Suggests rather than dodge the question. Parents should consider whether their family is ready for a pet.
Can I have a puppy, Pros and cons?
Bergen suggests that parents weigh the pros and cons of adding a pet to the household before agreeing to a child’s request. “A pet can teach children responsibility and become a wonderful addition to a family or it can be a burden,” she says.
What do you need to consider first?
Bergen recommends families consider the following before deciding.
Who will care for the pet?
Families should agree beforehand on who will be responsible for feeding, walking, bathing, and cleaning up after the pet.
Do you have space for a pet?
This is a big one to think about. Families living in apartments or townhouses may prefer a cat, a bird, or fish, rather than a Labrador retriever. Check the library or the Internet to learn more about different types and breeds of pets to determine the one most suitable for your family.
Do you have time for Puppy?
Owning a pet is time-consuming and may be expensive. Family members should realize that they may have to give up other activities to properly care for a pet. If the prospect seems too daunting, parents may suggest waiting until the child is old enough to help care for an animal.
Bergen recommends the whole family meet the animal before deciding to take it home. Owning a pet is a long-term commitment, so think carefully before adopting a furry new family member.
