Choosing A First Pet?

Have they started asking yet?

Every parent knows that at some point, usually at 4 to 7 years old, their little one will pine for a little one of his or her own. Chances are, many letters to Santa included a plea for a fuzzy buddy.

A pet can be a best friend that teaches responsibility, friendship and respect for life. Usually it's a dog or cat, but there are many other options if families want to start small. Any pet will provide a child companionship and teach important life lessons.

But the most important lesson is one the parents should learn before they ever obtain a pet. That is that all animals have special needs and should be considered a lifelong family member, not just a child's playmate. Kids can help care for the pet, but choose tasks that are age appropriate. As with children, the pets' well-being depends upon the grownups.

"Basically, caring for a pet is a great learning experience for kids," says veterinarian Heather McCauley of Hidden Oaks Animal Hospital in Tarpon Springs. "Children learn by example, so parents need to set the tone, allow kids to help, but never expect that child to assume responsibility. They just don't have the capacity for that level of accountability."

How do you know when your family's ready for a real-life critter? A child's age and disposition will help decide. Typically, 6 years of age is a good starting point.

Is the child old enough to listen to directions? Is he able to exercise self-control and obey the word "no" or "gentle"? Observing a child's behavior with pets that belong to others will help answer these questions.

Dogs and cats are the most popular pets for good reasons. They are wonderful companions, but definitely require living space and time to train, walk, bathe and clean up after. And caring for a dog or cat will have you digging deeper into your wallet than other pet choices.

If your family isn't ready to take that plunge, start with an animal whose needs can be met with less space, time, and money.

Test the waters with something simple and inexpensive: a pet goldfish. Freshwater fish are soothing, pretty to look at and interesting creatures. It's a safe bet for a first pet and may lead to an aquarium hobby.

Perhaps something cuddly is called for. Guinea pigs are delightful animals with cute personalities. They communicate with squeaks and gurgles, and they're more durable than other small pets. Pigs need a roomy enclosure, a specialized diet and regular cleanup. Also, they enjoy other pig pals, so consider a pair.

Rabbits, another good option, are most humanely cared for indoors. Extreme outdoor temperatures, wind, humidity and rain cause stress for domestic rabbits.

Birds are the third most popular pet in America - nearly 7 million perch in our hearts and homes. They're fun to watch and can fill your house with song. Although each bird has a unique personality, every species has a typical temperament and general behavior pattern. Not all birds make appropriate pets for children.

Tampa bird lover Elizabeth Mills suggests a single parakeet or cockatiel.

"If you have a pair of birds, they will be more inclined to bond with each other versus your child," she says. "While neither species are known to be talkers, they can both whistle up a storm."

The cockatiel is slightly larger and therefore less delicate, probably the better choice for a small child.

No matter what you choose, adult supervision is always imperative when young children and pets are together.

Pets need space and may not always welcome human attention, especially when eating, sleeping or playing with a toy. Even the friendliest pets can become over-stimulated, so teach children how to recognize signs the pet needs some alone time. And remember, small kids may not have developed the motor skills to properly handle a delicate pet.

A first pet is a unique relationship that your child will always remember. They will likely develop a wonderful bond with this animal, so be sure to commit to caring for it. Teach by example that pets deserve love and respect for a lifetime, just like other members of the family.

Our slowed economy has left Bay area animal shelters bursting with wonderful pets whose families could no longer afford them. Dogs, cats, puppies, kittens, rabbits, gerbils, hamsters and more wait in shelters and rescues for a new chance for life. Make your child's first pet a shelter pet. You'll probably be saving a life. What a wonderful gift for both the surrendered pet and your child.

Write to pet-lifestyle expert Kristen Levine at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; or e-mail kristen@fetchingcommunications.com.