by Angela Russell

Created on: January 29, 2008   Last Updated: November 30, 2010

"Mommmmmmm! I want a dog!" Your child begs. You know that junior isn't quite ready for the responsibility of caring for a canine, or maybe you just don't have room for a dog. So you offer to compromise, and get him a smaller, easier to care for pet. There are so many small critters to choose from. Which critter will make the best pet for your child?

The list seems endless. Fish, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, lizards, turtles, snakes, spiders, hedgehogs, and even mice. Any of these small animals can make a great pet for your child. Children can receive hours of entertainment and pleasure from these animals. The care and upkeep isn't quite as extensive as that of a dog. These pets are great for younger kids!

If you choose fish, one thing you will need to keep in mind is that their tank or bowl will need to be cleaned, probably weekly. Fish require very little upkeep. Feed them once per day and make sure their water is clean and you can enjoy watching them for untold hours.

Gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, and hedgehogs are all similar in that they will need a cage with at the very least an exercise wheel. A constant source of food and water and they will need to have their cages cleaned out often. Many accessories are available for this type of pet. Balls that allow them to roll about the floor provide the exercise that they need. Cages that offer a maze of tubes that allows the animal to roam around to entertain not only you but themselves.

Lizards, snakes, and spiders aren't for the faint at heart. If these animals appeal to you, they are probably some of the easiest pets to care for. Make sure they are fed, warm and their cages or terrariums are clean and these animals make the absolute quietest of pets. That is until you friends and family shriek when they see them.

If you choose one of these critters as a pet, consider how much time you have to devote to the care and upkeep of the animal, how much work will be required to clean the cage, and how much money you want to spend on feeding the animal. Some of these animals require more expensive food.

When in doubt you can always visit your local pet store and ask questions. These stores will have qualified staff with extensive knowledge of the different types of pets available and can help you make a decision on which pet is the best pet for you. 

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