Below is my post WHO TAKES CARE OF YOUR PET? Also see my SPECIAL MESSAGE TO MY READERS about changes in my blog this year.

If you are one of the 4 out of 10 families that add a pet to their family after having children, your first decision is what kind of pet is best for your child and your family. The possibilities are many – dog, cat, bird, hamster, fish, chickens, or if you are in the country the possibilities can go on and on. Some of the things to consider in making this choice are:

• What type of cleanup is required?

• How much space is needed?

• What will traveling be like?

• What are the costs for health care and food?

• How much people-attention will the pet need?

• What do you or your child expect to get back from the pet (cuddling, protection, playtime)?

Who will take care of the pet is the next decision. Everyone needs to be on the same page. Parents should take the lead regarding pet responsibilities at first and gradually empower kids to take over duties that are appropriate to their age and skill level. List all the tasks that need to be done; assign them to members of the family; and write a family contract. As time goes on,  joined the family, if kid-tasks are not getting done, revisit the contract to see if there’s better way for the kids to help.

According to Justine Schuurmans, Licensed Family Dog Mediator. It is best to leave walks to the grown-ups. As a general rule, kids should be at least 14 before they do solo walking. The pet needs to be well-enough trained to remain calm and physically incapable of pulling child over. The child needs to be mature enough to handle unexpected situations with nature and people and have a strong enough bond with the pet to give it direction in an emergency.