Is It A Good Idea For Kids To Grow Up With A Dog?

Having a pet can be an absolute joy. They offer companionship, help teach responsibility for older kids and can support mental and physical health for children and parents. However, deciding to get a pet (or keep one when bringing home a new baby) shouldn’t be taken lightly. Safety is a significant issue that should be a priority for all parents. Responsible pet ownership and ensuring your children are developmentally ready should also be a focus. If you’re unsure, conversations with your pediatrician and veterinarian are excellent places to start.

What Should Pet Owners Consider As First-Time Parents?

We can break down the pet/kid dynamic into two categories: pet owners having their first baby and families with children considering getting a pet. Parents of newborns should consider the safety issues if there’s already a pet in the home. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that first-time parents talk with their vet about how their pet may respond to the new human. If your pet has a history of aggressive behavior, it’s time for a serious conversation. Children 1 to 4 are at the highest risk of dying from a dog bite. As much as you love your dog, your child’s safety comes first.

What Should Families Consider When Getting A New Pet?

As children grow, families often consider getting a pet as a companion for their children and a joyful addition to their home. Many adults grew up with pets and have happy memories they want to share with their kids. Certainly, pets can be a fantastic addition to a home. However, your family must be ready for the challenge. The AAP (The American Academy of Pediatrics) offers several tips for parents considering bringing home a new pet.

• If you are getting a pet as a companion for your child, it’s generally best to wait until they are 5 or 6. Younger children can’t always control their impulses and may provoke a bite. Toddlers and preschoolers should always have supervision when interacting with pets.
• If your child is developmentally ready, help them prepare for pet ownership. Discuss the responsibilities of pet ownership and check out books from the library about various aspects of pet care and the work in mind.
• Keep animals’ temperaments in mind and select a gentle, kid-friendly breed. Sometimes adopting a gentle, older animal with a proven track record around children instead of a puppy is an excellent choice.
• If you shop for a puppy, use a reputable breeder to ensure a good temperament and prevent exposure to disease.

What Are The Advantages of Having Pets?

As those of us who grew up with pets understand, having a pet as a kid has many benefits.

• Pets can help protect children’s mental health, be a source of unconditional love, and provide a refuge when children are struggling with peer or family relationships.
• Pets can provide life lessons for children, including about death and grief.
• Pets can foster a sense of responsibility. Parents should offer supportive accountability as children help with pet care.
• Pets encourage exercise and outside time for the entire family.
• Studies show that having a pet can boost immunity and even reduce the likelihood of developing allergies.

What Are The Potential Downsides Of Having A Pet With Kids?

• Dog bites are a significant consideration, especially if you have children under 10. Children between 5 and 9 are at a higher risk of an animal bite than any other age group. Around 5 percent of children in this group are bitten by an animal every year.
• Does your family have time to care for a pet? Do parents understand that much of the responsibility will fall on them, even if their child is old enough to care for a pet? Many families find that despite promises to help with pet care, school and activities take priority, and much of the care falls to mom or dad. Parental involvement is essential, even if the child is the primary motivator.
• Is your family financially ready for a pet? In addition to food and equipment, be sure to factor vet bills into the equation.
• Pet dander allergies can be a problem. If your child has a history of allergies or has shown symptoms around other animals, talk with your pediatrician before taking the leap.

What Are Safety Tips For Children and Animals?

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers excellent tips for keeping children safe with pets and other animals.

• Never leave a young child alone with an animal.
• Teach your child how to greet an animal. Slowly extend their hand and stand still while the dog sniffs them, never surprising them from behind, where the dog can’t see them first.
• Warn your child not to pet an unfamiliar animal and teach them the warning signs of an unfriendly dog, including a rigid body, stiff tail, crouched position and aggressive barking.
• Teach your children to avoid wild animals.
• If a pet or another animal bites your child, don’t ignore it. Infections can occur from cat and dog bites. Ensure all of your pets are up to date on rabies vaccines. Also, see your pediatrician or go to the emergency room immediately if a wild animal bites your child.

At Loudoun Pediatric Associates, we’re animal lovers. We understand the many benefits of having a pet for children and families. However, we believe it’s essential for parents and children to understand the responsibilities involved. Whether you’re a first-time parent with a pet at home or a family considering introducing a new pet, we’re happy to answer your questions and make recommendations. Let’s talk and ensure you’re making the right decision at the right time.