Choosing a first pet for a child can be a very exciting time
Pets can teach children many skills: responsibility, patience, love… and more. However, it’s essential clients understand that they still need to be the primary caregiver. Children do not have the emotional maturity to be responsible for a life.
Many small animals are being kept in inappropriate housing, with inadequate space, lack of company, poor diet and/or lack of enrichment. Many are kept in enclosures which do not allow them to express their innate behaviours. Sadly, most of the time this is down to a lack of research, education and/or money.
Choosing your child’s first pet – new video
The video touches on the important points to consider when choosing a child’s first pet:
– Age of the child(ren)
– Time constraints
– Space
– Finances (including the cost of the pet over its lifetime).
The latest video then highlights some pros and cons of a few common choices: fish, small animals, rabbits and guinea pigs. For example, fish are well suited to small children, who may unknowingly harass or roughly handle other pets. Gerbils are intelligent and rarely bite, but can be fast and tricky to handle, meaning they’d be better suited to older children. Hamsters are nocturnal and may keep their owners awake at night, and are more prone to biting. Guinea pigs are generally friendly and tend to enjoy being handled, but are more costly.
Display our latest video on your TV and social media
Importantly, the video signposts clients to seek advice before they welcome a new pet into their home if they aren’t sure. Encourage your clients to research which pet best suits their family before they make the decision, by utilising our The Vet Channel waiting room video today.