Growing up with a pet has many benefits for children’s development. You gain self-esteem and self-confidence; they learn to build trusting relationships, develop compassion and empathy as well as responsibility and respect for other living beings.
However, children are usually unable, to be able to look after a pet independently and need the support of their parents. If a child wants a pet, the decision should be made by the whole family and the responsibility for the pet should rest with the parents, not the child.
Children often want an animal, but the excitement of the new family member wears off quickly and the responsibilities can become tedious when new interests take over. Therefore, acquiring a pet must be the parent’s decision. You must be willing to take on the responsibility for the animal for years. If parents are unable to do so, it is advisable not to adopt a pet until the time is right. We recommend the 30 Day Small Animal Challenge to help you decide if the time is right. If he has come, there are many points to consider. The following information will help you with this decision.
It is very important that you do as much research as possible to find the right pet for your family and lifestyle.
If, after reading the information, you are confident that you meet all the requirements to own a pet, the question remains as to which small animal would best suit your family and lifestyle. Each species of small animal has its own needs and these must be met. has put together information on rabbits, guinea pigs, rats and mice as pets for further orientation:
There are many small animals in shelters waiting for a home. When looking for a pet, your first port of call should always be your local animal shelter. The well-trained staff at the animal shelter or sanctuary will be happy to answer your questions and advise you on choosing the right animal. Many small animals are given to animal shelters because they were bought for children or by families who no longer want to take care of them. It is therefore important that you can offer the animals a responsible and loving home for their entire lives.