Pets can be a wonderful addition to family life, but they can also cause disaster.

These ideas can make your pet experience a good one:

Choose the right time
Just because the neighbor's dog had the most adorable puppies does not mean YOU should get one! If you are thinking of getting a pet make sure it's an intellectual decision, not an emotional one. For instance, it's not the right time to get a new pet if you have a child in the house who's under age two, if you are planning a move, if a new school year is about to start, or if your vacation trip is right around the corner. Put at least a month's worth of thought into this decision.

Choose the right pet
Do some research before you decide on which pet to buy. Talk to families who already have a pet and get their input. As I researched the world of pets I was surprised to find there was much I didn't know, things like a Cocker Spaniel is not typically a good pet for a child, and that a box turtle is a perfect choice for young kids because it's so hardy. Make the research project your first step to adding a pet to your family, and you'll make a wiser decision.

Agree to pet care rules
There's a lot of fun in owning a pet but there's also a lot of work and it's always more work than you anticipate. Kids under age ten are not capable of handling pet care on their own. (They have the best of intentions, but the reality is that they need your help.) It's best to have a formal pet care meeting and decide on specific jobs for each family member. Write down jobs on a pet care chart in very specific terms, and tie jobs into familiar routines to make them easy. For example, "Fill the dog's food and water dishes before dinner." This way, your normal routine acts as a reminder.

Adjust your expectations
Pet care routines should shift according to your child's age. As your child grows older, and as his current responsibilities become routine, he should be expected to take on greater portions of the pet's care. Remember to take the time to teach your child each new job and allow time for him to learn and become comfortable with the new task. After that, your job is to have clear expectations and a specific pet care list that your child can adhere to. With a few gentle reminders your child will learn much about life by taking care of the family pet.

Pet Care Jobs
Here's a list of ideas to get you thinking about what your kids are capable of doing. Don't underestimate your children! Give them a chance to contribute!

Age 2 to 3
Play gently with pet
Give pet treats

Age 3 to 5
Fill -food and water
Brush fur

Age 5 to 7
Scoop litter box
Pick up yard waste
Clean cage

Age 7 to 10
Take pet for a walk
Train pet
Change litter box
Bathe pet

Age 10 and up
Accompany you to the vet
Handle pet care on own
Give pet medicine
Pet-sit for others

All Ages
Give pet loving care, attention and respect

© 2000National Parent Information Network

Credits: Elizabeth Pantley