Mu kids would love a pet but for us the time is just not right yet

We’ve got a Labrador Retriever, now 3 years old. We bought him when he was just 6 and a half weeks old. Our daughter was 10 years old at the time. She had been asking for a dog for ages. We waited to have our own home before adding this wonderful pet to our home.

I’m seeing too many young mums, with children under 2, getting a puppy so they can grow up together. I can think of 2 friends off the top of my head, and one has already banished her pup to a life of neglect in the backyard. The poor thing didn’t look right and was sickly so the mum was no longer interested. That poor poor dog

We have 2 dogs. Both are rescue dogs from family members who could no longer care for them

Best thing we did was get a dog. She is big and noisy and survives with all the kids!

if you are willing to handle a pet and the expense, then go for it….don’t forget that a lot of rental properties won’t allow pets or you will have to seek extra permission to have it (when they say pets negotiable, even then it is most likely a small pet that they are referring to)

My kids would love a pet but with 3 toddlers I’m currently a little time poor… Plus pets come with added expenses too that need to be considered.

Some very good points have been made here. Things everyone should think about.

There is never a right time; it’s more of a suitable time for a pet into your life. Love all our four legged children, plus they are adored by our little men.

I saw and interesting article on dogs and children on TV last night. One of therm main reason a dog doesn’t like its tail being touched or pulled is that it sends shockwaves from its tail right up its back and if it is severe enough into its neck too.
Some dogs will get upset when your baby cries. I know one dog who had to go into the baby’s room and have a look at the baby herself but even if the baby was on the floor she never touched her at all, not even to sniff. Seeing was believing!! Once she had seen the baby for herself she would leave the room quite happily.

It sounds like you have your hands full with all those animals and humans!

Pets can bring such great joy to a family but also great responsibility, couldn’t imagine life without our furbaby.

our poor dog took a back seat once the kids were born. Before I had them he was walked daily and got lots of attention – then as hubby and I both work and have other priorities, once the kids came along we had less time for him. He started attention seeking behaviour. We found a wonderful man to give him the love and attention he deserves – was a hard decision but better for everyone at the end of the day.

I got a border collie puppy when my child was 6 months old, he is the reason I found my son when he went missing at poppy’s house in the space of a minute. We found him half way down the paddock and only because the dog was with him. He was about 2 at the time. I think animals are great if brought up well.

My kids would love a puppy. I’d love to give them one – but i dont want the responsibility, and i feel like that ultimately that will all fall to me. I’d hate for the novelty to wear off and the pet wouldnt get the attention it deserves.. so right now, much to my childrens dismay, i say nay

Thanks for the informative article. Animals do give unconditional love and teach children responsibility and caring.

In the last 6 months we have gotten 2 rabbits and the children really love them.

I got my son a pet turtle. thought it would be much better for him. he loves his turtle, and often has little conversations with him.

I think it is always time for a pet. it is great to have a pet with a child growing up together. It is wonderful. xx

I definitely suggest get a pet before having a child so have plenty of time to train and be with it before big changes happen and then make sure that you still spend time with them!