Pet Style

In choosing whether to bring a pet into your home, first consider the needs and wishes of all family members. Although children can learn pet care as they mature, the parents still have to teach this care and monitor that it is being done correctly. Dr. Gary Landsberg, a diplomat of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, sums it up well. “Pets don’t innately know how to behave around children, and children don’t come into this world with the knowledge of what to do or not to do when it comes to interacting with animals.” 
 

Pet behavior is determined by three factors: genetics, early experiences, and current experiences. Genetics are partially determined by breed characteristics — there are books detailing information such as grooming needs, typical exercise requirements, and even social tendencies. Once you have selected one or more possibilities, visit with rescue groups, shelters and a few breeders. They will provide you with selection criteria and discuss the attributes of their animals. However, be sure to focus on adult animals when you visit. Puppies or kittens are adorable, but adults (especially the parents) give you a better idea of their long-term personality. 
 

Once you have selected a breed or type of pet, take time to consider the age of the pet. Although puppies and kittens can be wonderful, they are also “babies” and typically take more time and energy. If you do go that route, choose a puppy that is outgoing and friendly but not overbearing. Avoid shy, withdrawn puppies, as puppies in these two extremes are more likely to retain some of these characteristics into adulthood. 
 

However, some behaviors are not apparent in pets until they are about two or three years old. While this can be a good reason to adopt an older pet, remember these pets have had previous experiences and some can come with baggage. Sometimes this is helpful, but many times we simply have no idea what their previous life was like. Be sure that you would be content with them just as they are. Many animals can learn new skills but deep-seated problems, such as aggression or fear, are more difficult to treat and may only partially resolve. 
 

 Your attachment, and your children’s, to this new pet can be almost immediate. Use discernment in deciding when the child should become involved in the process. The adults in the family should go through the selection process until they have found one, or a few, desirable matches. At that point, bring the child into the process. 
 

Introductions between pets and children should be done when both parties are calm. Never force interactions when either the child or the pet appears apprehensive or assertive. Since you cannot supervise the children and pets all the time, have a place that the pets can be safely confined away from the children. This may involve a kennel, room, or baby gates. Make the area safe, secure, and comfortable with a bed, toys, water, access for eliminations, and regular feeding. It’s tempting to let the new pet sleep in bed with the children, but you can’t monitor this situation and an injury could occur. It may take a little time to adjust, but usually all concerned will sleep better in their own bed. 
 

Although most of us associate classes as a place to learn certain commands or skills, they also give your pet an opportunity to learn about other animals and other people in a safe, monitored setting. Choose a trainer who employs positive reinforcement methods. This kind of training teaches a pet to learn using rewards, which builds a loving relationship and teaches some great life skills. 
 

Pets can enrich your life in a multitude of ways but there are pets that are not suitable for homes with children. It is the wise parent that understands that they bear the responsibility not only for limiting the selection, but also for teaching both the child and the pet how to interact appropriately, and for supervising this developing relationship for the life of the pet.

 

Pet selection counseling is available with Dr. Stevenson through the Animal Behavior Center at Veterinary Specialty Center of Tucson, located at 4909 N. La Cañada Drive. For information, call 520.795.9955 or visit VSCOT.com.