Raising, taking care of pets teaches children responsibility

TAKING care of pets or raising one, either a dog or cat, is said to be a benefit for children, as this teaches them responsibility, love and to also be empathetic to the needs of others.

According to Ceres Veterinary, raising a pet is a wonderful way to help your children learn social skills like empathy, comprehension, and respect. These abilities will help them later in life when they are interacting with people and other animals.

Ceres Veterinary says before getting a pet, there are a few questions that you must ask yourself, such as:

* Why do I want to get my child a pet? If the motivation for getting a pet is to provide a long-term caring home for a pet, whether from a breeder, a pet shop, or an animal shelter, then the purchase is justified. If the motivation is because the adorable pet is irresistible, then the motivation is probably wrong, and you should refrain from acquiring the pet.

* Are we ready for a long-term commitment?

* Do you have the space for the particular pet you have in mind?

* What can my child and our family offer a pet? Is your child the correct match for the pet you have in mind?

* Will the pet require a special permit or licence to be kept, and are you willing to comply with all the like municipal by-laws?

Nicole Nel, animal behaviourist at the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, said a healthy relationship built on safety and respect for living with a companion pet was important.

In particular, teaching children to have compassion for animals is most important if deciding to adopt a dog or cat as a companion.

“Empathy and compassion for others means understanding how others feel and helps us treat others kindly. Teaching children to respect all life ensures that as they develop into adulthood they can have empathy for others and those in their community – which has a knock-on effect in communities and the next generation,” said Nel.

She provided the following tips for parents:

* Parents should actively supervise interactions with their young children and their pets to ensure both parties are comfortable.

* Teach kids to respect their pets. * Understand how they communicate (eg, dogs and cats communicate through body language).

* It is advisable to find out as much as possible about how your cat or dog communicates (eg, do a course on body language, find out information from a certified companion animal behaviourist).

* Animals have feelings and lead emotional lives: they can feel happy, sad, scared – just like us.

* Give them space (most animals do not like to be hugged or squeezed or picked up repeatedly). Always keep an eye when young children are around cats or dogs.

* Our pet companions are not toys; they are living beings and they are part of the family and can live for many years.

* Do not disturb pets when they are eating or sleeping.

* Teach children not to shout and scream around animals. Pets have sensitive ears and shouting can frighten them.

| DENZIL MAREGELE TEACHING children to raise and take care of pets helps with their development.