First Pets for Kids

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By Chelsea Scott

You knew the day would come: your child wants a cat. A dog. A pony. Worst-case scenarios and dollar signs flash before your eyes as you try to explain to your child that they are too young or too irresponsible to have a pet. Let’s pump the brakes and brainstorm here. There are plenty of low-maintenance pets that are suitable for families with kids and cost much less than a dog or cat.

Gecko

Yes, like the car insurance commercial. These small lizards are docile, easy to care for and generally live a long time. They make a kid-friendly pet due to their easy-going nature and willingness to be held.

Canary

Small and fun to watch, all canaries really need is a cage, food and water and a few toys. Your child could be responsible for cleaning the cage, feeding or watering.

Hamster

Like the canary, a hamster can be happy in their comfortable cage with just food and water. Don’t forget the wheel! These cute rodents are goodtempered and don’t require more than a few minutes of handling per day.

Betta Fish

Betta fish are colorful and easy to care for since they only require a small bowl with no filter. Kids will enjoy picking out decorations for the bowl and watching the betta swim around. If taken care of, betta fish can live two or three years. Stick with a single betta: two or more will fight.

Rabbit

Rabbits are social and gentle and can be a great first pet with appropriate adult supervision. They can live to be about 10 years old and trained to use a litter box.

Ultimately, you will decide whether to bring a pet into your home, when, and how much supervision your pet (and child) need. Even a small pet is a big responsibility. No matter what you choose, it will be the right decision for your family.

Sources consulted: www.kids.nationalgeographic.com, www.parents.com