Eventually every child comes to their parents with one simple question; “can I have a pet?” Usually they have one already picked out and come armed with a long list of reasons to justify the decision. But as a parent what do you say? It is hard to crush your child’s dreams but a pet is a huge change in the family dynamic. Plus, guess who will end up doing most of the pet related chores? Yep, it’s you.

There are no easy answers, but here are some pitfalls to avoid if you decide to get that family pet. Thanks to the Dumb Friends League for helping out with this one.

1.       Getting a Puppy

Puppy’s are very cute but tons of work. Before getting that cute puppy for you kids have a reality check. Puppy’s really are like having a new baby except they don’t wear diapers (keep that in mind!). When you bring a new puppy home they will whine and cry for the first few nights, possibly as long as 10 days. Then you have to figure in training, not just potty training. Puppies nip and chew, so they are more destructive then any toddler. If you don’t have the time or patience to train a puppy, get an adult dog that is already trained.

2.       Getting a Little Dog

Many people substitute the puppy for a little dog. Why not? They always stay little and cute right? Wrong. Small dogs are very high strung and nervous. When you pair them with kids who run around and yell, it can be a dangerous combination. Think about it from a dog’s perspective. Imagine you are about 8 inches off the ground and there are these kids running around the house. How would you react when one comes near or runs by you...you nip, bark, or even worse, bite.

3.        Letting Your Kids Get All Grabby

You have to be consistent when teaching your kids how to handle a pet. When the pet enters the house you need to teach them the right way to pet and play with the new addition. Pre Schoolers should be taught to use only two fingers to touch any pet, and older students can be trusted to use their entire hand but they still have a tendency to grab a handful of fur. Always demonstrate the proper way and reinforce good behavior. On a side note, make sure your pet has a safe zone where they can go to escape the kids for a while. Think about it, don’t you wish you had one!

4.       Skipping the Vet

Your pet should visit the vet regularly just like your kids. Well okay your kids don’t go to the vet but you know what I mean. You need to make sure you pet is in the best possible health. For example, if you dog has a hurt paw, and someone comes over and grabs that paw, how do you think the dog will react. Yep, probably bite. Now you have not one but two medical issues on your hands.

So be smart and before you give into your son or daughter’s doe eyed plea for a new pet, think about the impact it will have on your family and if you have time to bring this new member into the fold. If not can I suggest a goldfish or a hamster?