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Kids and Pets Interaction Guide

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  • February 26, 2009 at 11:02 pm #364
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    A guide to ages and species.
    Guide by Stephen Zawistowski, Ph.D, ASPCA Executive Vice President of National Programs

    Infants
    Primary Issues: Introduction to current pets
    Recommend: N/A
    Tasks for the Child: N/A
    Other Observations: Resident dogs and cats need gradual, supervised introduction to infants.

    Toddler
    Primary Issues: Curiosity; pulling, touching, etc.
    Recommend: N/A
    Tasks for the Child: N/A
    Other Observations: Care must be taken with dog food dishes, toys; litter boxes for cats; aquarium wires.

    3-5 Years
    Primary Issues: Learning about contact, empathy.
    Recommend: Guinea Pig
    Tasks for the Child: Filling water bottle and food dish
    Other Observations: Guinea pigs like to be held, seldom bite and will whistle when excited or happy.

    5-10 Years
    Primary Issues: Attention span is variable
    Recommend: Shelf pets or goldfish
    Tasks for the Child: Clean cages with adult help, supervised play with dogs/cats
    Other Observations: Adults should always check to ensure that pets have food/water and cages are secured.

    10-13 Years
    Primary Issues: Greater interest in pets and capacity for responsibility
    Recommend: Dogs, Cats, Rabbits
    Tasks for the Child: Feed pet; walk dog; clean rabbit cage; clean cat litter
    Other Observations: Children this age can be reliable, but adults should always check on food/water, etc. Participation in dog training classes are an excellent learning opportunity for children.

    14-17 Years
    Primary Issues: Competition for time and attention (i.e. Sports, clubs, etc.)
    Recommend: Birds, Aquariums
    Tasks for the Child: Most tasks. Use allowance to buy treats, etc.
    Other Observations: Developing interest as a fancier, more likely to do research or read about the species. Parents should note that dogs and cats acquired at this age will probably stay in the home when the child leaves for college, etc.

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