Researching Pets for Preschoolers

Here's the lowdown on some of the more common pets, as compiled with the assistance of Dr. Scott Bainbridge, a veterinarian with Queen West Animal Hospital in Toronto.

Dogs and Cats

Dogs and cats are great pets but keep in mind that children under eight don't have the maturity to help care for them. Know that the burden of their care will inevitably be yours. Also, make sure your new pet has patience for the antics of a preschooler who will inevitably trip over, tug tails, or pull hair.

Fish

While fish are fascinating for younger children, aquariums often require a lot of maintenance, most of which younger children cannot do. That said, ever since my son was a few months old, he has loved our fish. As a toddler, he enjoyed feeding them and took great pride in reminding me that they needed to be fed.

Smaller Mammals

Of the smaller mammals, guinea pigs probably make the best pets, since they require low maintenance. They are generally quite gentle and can tolerate being picked up repeatedly. Hamsters and gerbils are good too; however, they can bite and may be too delicate for smaller hands to handle. Rabbits on the other hand are more suitable for older children. They require a lot of maintenance and can be quite nippy.

Birds

Birds may be too delicate for little hands. They also tend to bite, can be quite noisy and are not traditionally affectionate. Some birds, such as parrots, also have long life spans (forty to fifty years in some cases!).

Reptiles

While chameleons, iguanas, geckos, snakes and turtles may seem like really "cool" pets, they are not necessarily appropriate for younger children. Reptiles can carry bacteria, such as salmonella, which can be particularly harmful for young children. Hands must be washed thoroughly every time a reptile is handled. In addition, their eating requirements (live crickets, frozen mice, etc.) may be more than you bargained for.

By Rochelle Strauss