Once you’ve decided on the perfect pet for your family, ensure your child understands her appropriate handling and care. A cat or dog is an excellent teacher for your child to learn responsibility, kindness, and listening skills, but make sure every interaction is positive. Follow these tips to avoid potential problem behaviors:
Teach your child to handle every animal with kindness and respect—do not allow her to tug tails, pull ears, or snatch toys or treats from pets.
Allow your child to help care for your pet to learn responsibility and proper husbandry.
Engage the family in training sessions that teach both children and pets appropriate behaviors. Puppy or obedience classes involve the entire family and get everyone on the same page regarding commands and training methods.
Make sure your child knows to never bother a pet while sleeping.
Never leave your child alone with an animal—accidents can happen quickly.
Don’t allow your child to chase pets who are trying to leave the room, because the pet may feel cornered and lash out.
Teach safe play by avoiding or limiting rough games, such as tug of war and wrestling, and games that involve nipping or pouncing on hands.
