What is an Ideal Pet for Your Child - A Cat or Dog?

What are the Best Dogs for children?

Well different dogs have different traits and
personalities, so when choosing your dog you
need to think about these factors. Would you
like a small, medium or large breed of dog?
Would you prefer a long or short haired dog? For
example Labrador Retrievers are a large breed of
dog and they have been found to be an all round
ideal dog for families and children, so you may
find they are most suitable.

Your children can play and teach a dog different
commands, so they would play a vital role in a
dogs training. Dogs need feeding every day
either a large meal once a day or two small
meals once in the morning and once in the
evening, this all depends on your individual
preferences. Giving your children the task of
carrying out this important task as well as
topping up the dog's water bowl every day is a
great way of teaching your children what
responsibility is all about. The dog is relying
on your child for its food and water so your
child has a vital role to play.

Dogs need grooming frequently depending on the
time of year. They normally gain winter coats
towards the end of the year, they then shed
their coats in spring to prepare for the heat of
summer. Once a week your child can sit down and
groom the dog. This is another chance for your
child to be responsible and to learn about
caring for a living creature and also for
bonding.

Now moving on to the aspect of your child owning
a cat;

Cats are low maintenance in comparison to a dog
so they maybe the best for pet for children.

Even if you travel regularly, normally a cat can
stay in your home and have a pet sitter visit to
give food and water. A cat makes an especially
ideal pet if you will not be home much as they
don't have a problem with being left on their
own. Obviously that does not stop the fact that
they love attention and would like to spend time
with you.

If you are considering getting a cat, you will
first need to decide what breed will be ideal
for your children. Some are cuddlier, whereas
others are more outgoing. Your children can play
with the cat and keep the cat stimulated.

Like dogs, cats need feeding once or twice every
day, as well as their water being refilled. You
child should take on this crucial role and they
must learn what an important part they play in
the cats welfare.

Cats also require grooming so organise with your
child a day when this can be done and keeping the
day the same each week will help the child get in
to a better routine.

You need to decide whether you would get a Cat
Flap fitted to your door so the cat can go in
and out as he or she pleases. However, you still
may need a litter box and to train your cat how
to use it. You can involve your child to help
with this training.

Whether you decide to opt for a dog or cat for
your child the below points always apply:

Your child must understand to stay calm around
any pet. Fast movements and loud noises will
terrify a cat or dog. Your child needs to learn
the correct way to pick up a cat or dog without
causing any pain or discomfort to the pet. Your
child needs to know that the sleeping area of
the cat or dog is their own private space and
for them not to interrupt a pet while sleeping.
Your child should understand that a dog or cat
is for life and they can not give up their
responsibilities. The child needs to know the
importance of and how to train a pet. Lastly,
your child should understand that the pet is a
real living creature not a doll or toy.

Owning a dog or cat will help develop your
child's way of thinking. Also your child will
learn about responsibilities in life and
understand how essential their role is in the
dog or cats welfare. In return, your child will
gain from the pet a loyal friend who is always
there, waiting happily by the front door for
their happy reunion when their trusted companion
arrives home.

So now you can make an informed decision on what
is the best pet for kids.

----------------------------------------------------
Alex Kelly

As a pet and website owner, my articles are
based on issues I feel are important for fellow
animal lovers.
Pet Promenade has everything you will need for
the furry member of the family. From pet food,
dog leads, grooming equipment and bird cages.
With over 5000 pet products, at competetive
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http://www.petpromenade.co.uk/

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