Pets and Kids Learning Responsibility Together
Parents, if you have a family pet, you will probably agree with me regarding the endless experiences that kids can acquire from pet ownership. We know that owning and caring for a pet is an ongoing process for the lessons learned about responsibility.
Our children learn the most about many areas in life right from their home. Good manners, respect for others, and responsibility, ty to name a few. Wouldn’t you say our responsibility to them is to set an example and to be great role models? Pets fit right in because they serve as live-in teachers for the whole family, not just the kids.
I feel this is the first and most important lesson. Animals are one of God’s creatures that deserve the same respect and the same rights to life as humans do. Many times, people think animals are disposable. Often, when their uniqueness wears off or the situations change for the humans, the pets are the first to go. I understand some situations warrant change, but the responsibility factor still applies. When agreeing to accept one of God’s creations, we are agreeing to do what is in the best interest of the pet. After all, we decided to have them with us in the first place. Pets are like kids in that adults are their spokespersons and caregivers. They do not ask to come into our lives. If everyone came from that mindset, there would be a lot less child or animal abuse.
Realizing from the start that this cute, cuddly ball of fur is not all fun and games, and knowing that he or she has definite needs, and with those needs comes plenty of work. The responsibilities of soft pet ownership are probably the least favorite part for the kids. Nonetheless, it is a year-round 24/7 commitment. This can teach our children to be dependable and conscientious about their duties regarding their pet. These daily routines: exercise, eating healthy food, expressing love and affection, can guide our children to gain healthy lifestyles for themselves. They are dependent on us for fulfilling their needs. Even if we do not feel like walking or feeding them, it still needs to be done daily. Our pets become a very important part of our lives; they become a member of the family. Neglecting them in any way is irresponsible behavior.
Another form of responsibility is being prepared to provide adequate health care for our pets. Veterinary visits can become quite expensive, even for routine care. This is an excellent way to teach kids the value of money.
All these basic yet extremely important lessons and many more that I have not mentioned can serve our children well. By setting a good example with our actions, we can create very smart children and very grateful pets. Remember, if we treat them with the love and respect they deserve that is exactly what we will get in return.