Pets & Children

Research shows that pets can contribute to a child’s development physically by strengthening their immune system, and emotionally by creating an irreplaceable relationship. That said, safety needs to be the primary goal when mixing children and animals. 

1. Never leave a young child alone with an animal, for any reason. Any dog can bite; any cat can scratch.
2. Closely supervise child-animal interactions. Provide feedback to children by pointing out signs that the animal is uncomfortable or scared. This helps develop a child’s understanding of body language keeps maintains safety for all involved.
3. When introducing a newborn baby to a pet, first start by letting the pet sniff your baby’s blankets and clothes. Later allow the pet to sniff your baby’s foot or hand while you hold the baby securely. Never offer the baby's head to be sniffed. Never leave a baby alone with a pet under any circumstances.
4. Encourage your child to be gentle when touching pets. Never allow children to pull tails, ears, or roughhouse with any animal. Discourage hugs, kisses, or direct eye contact; most animals do not enjoy these interactions and this could easily end in a bite.
5. Never allow a child to approach an unknown animal alone. Ask the animal’s guardian if they are child-friendly, and then instead of approaching further, call the animal into your space for physical contact. If the animal does not approach, leave them alone.

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TOP TIP: Pet care is a great way to teach your child responsibility and life skills. Include your kids in providing food and water for your pets, taking them for a walk, and giving them a bath or brush. Although children should be included in these activities and encouraged to help out, the responsibility always falls on an adult to be a primary pet guardian.