by Tammy Lee White

Created on: January 17, 2009   Last Updated: January 27, 2009

The best way to teach kids to be responsible pet owners is to involve them in decisions from the beginning. Before selecting an appropriate pet for your family try to research your options together. Learning about animals helps your child to realize what requirements their pet will have. If the pet is for your child let them make the selection and choose their favorite name.

Children feel a greater responsibility to a pet if they believe it is their own. Don't call your pet the family dog and make your child do all the work. Have your child save up their allowance money to help pay for the cost of their pet. Give your child an allowance they can spend on their pet if they have been a responsible owner.

Help your child to set up a schedule or routine of their daily or weekly pet duties. This ensures your child knows what is expected and helps your child if they forget. Did you clean the cage? Did you walk the dog? Did you brush the cat this week? Put a checklist with magnets or erasable pen by the food bowl or animal cage.

Responsible parents have responsible children. Try setting a good example. Treat other pets in the home with the same respect you want your child to show for their own. Be kind to animals and show them compassion. Your child is always watching. Your attitude towards pets will influence your child. Avoid complaining about your pets!

Buying a pet for your child is a wonderful thing. Pets are loving and loyal companions. They offer friendship and love and give purpose to life. Kids like to know they are needed. Owning a pet is a big responsibility. Teach your child how to care for their pet. Be positive and set a good example. Their success is up to you!

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