A celebration of kids and pets

Kids and pets go together. Yes, life would be simpler without either but the rewards from having them outweigh the disadvantages. Having both more than doubles the lifetime of pleasure at watching them interact.

Pets like children. When brought up together, dogs and cats will actively seek out children to cuddle up to, to play with. While some people worry about the pet’s proximity to a baby, adequate adult supervision means there is little danger, if the pet has been socialised with young children prior to a baby coming into the family.

Families often acquire a pet when their children are young. While this may not be the best time, as so much time and energy is directed towards the children (and how much can be left for the pet?), it is a time when our nurturing desires are to the fore. As humans, we have so much love to give, so it makes sense to have both.

Sometimes it is difficult to give, give, give and the pets do get ignored for a little while while the children are small but most families come back on board and return to showering their pets with affection. While we should never employ the pet to be a babysitter, they do make excellent companion, They never seem to tire of the fun and games that children provide.

Pets can also teach children about nurturing an the responsibility of caring for them.Most kids love the opportunity to feed a pet or give it cuddles. Few, however, like to deal with picking up the poo or emptying the litter box. Then the responsibility falls back to mum or dad. Perhaps this will teach the children not to acquire a pet themselves until they are fully responsible for all aspects of their care.

One of the great joys of being a parent is when a child receives a pet of their own. My boys have each been given a cat (by us – never a good idea to give a pet as a present unless you are the one who’ll be responsible) on their 8th birthday, as I was (man, many years ago!!). The joy on their faces is indescribable.

Watching children grow up and still care for their pets is truly amazing. It may not be cool to hug your parents and you have to be ultra-cool with your mates but with your pet you can be yourself. Teenagers give their pets hugs and tell them secrets, just as they did when they were small.

And then one day, all too soon, the last day of the pet’s life arrives. Just like you, your child sobs. And you know you have brought up a child who will care for the creatures of the world. that has to be a good thing. Children and pets go together.

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The circus of life

Life’s a circus and I’m the juggler.

Ever wonder what you’d do if you didn’t have pets? And if you also have two legged little creatures, how would it be if they weren’t around? I’ve found myself wondering just that over these summer holidays as I juggle work and life (never a balance).

Who’s going where with who? – seems to be the never ending topic. Who needs picked up? Who’s got time to take the dog for a walk? Has anyone remembered to make that appointment to get the cats vaccinated? What do you mean our youngest child has to come to work with me?!

Then you have an evening when the cats are all asleep, eldest son has taken dog for a walk, younger sons staying with friends. The house is peaceful – and… it’s boring! Bring back the chaos. Bring back the noise.

So while I complain about trying to fit everything in and give everyone enough attention – and who’s giving me attention, I wouldn’t swap it. Just got to perfect that juggling :)

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Dogs for kids

Which breed of dog is best for kids? A question I am often asked.

Choosing a breed of dog is not easy and most people opt for the breed they grew up with. The ‘Oodle’ varieties seem to be gaining in popularity but are they the best for families with young children? Traditionally the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the Labrador and the Golden Retriever are suggested as good family pets. But what do you think?

Which dogs do you think are best for families? Any why? (Comment below)

More reading
Top ten pets for kids
Dr Jo’s website

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