How Much is that Doggie in the Window?

by Anne Kirby Chelius

Owning a pet has many advantages for a child. It can be a wonderful way for them to learn about responsibility and caring for others. A dog, in particular, can become a wonderful companion to your child. Very often children will “talk” to their pet – tell them secrets and confide in them. A pet can help raise a child’s self esteem.

While owning a dog does bring may benefits and joys it is not something that should be done on impulse – but rather requires careful thought and analysis.

Do not make it a surprise. How does your child interact with the dogs of a friend? Do they really like dogs? Do they show fear of them? A child should be made aware of the complications that owning a pet introduces.

Age is another important consideration. If your child is quite young a large dog may not be a wise choice. The responsibility you expect from you child for care of he dog is also quite age dependant.

By ages three to five the child can do certain simple things – like check that the dog has water and food. By ages six to nine these responsibilities could include actually feeding the dog and doing some of the clean up a dog requires. By age ten – he should be able to care for the dog. Giving them small jobs from any age helps to develop responsibility and does give them a feeling of accomplishment.

How committed are you to owning a dog? Do you travel often? Alternate arrangements need to be made for care of the dog. Have you ever owned a dog? First time owners are often in for big surprises!

How much you pay for the dog is only the beginning. An average dog will cost you – between food and occasional vet visits and shots -- $400 to$500 – a larger dog more. Also add in the cost of having someone care for your dog while you are away or the cost of taking the dog to be boarded.

What are your town regulations regarding dogs? Some towns require that there be a fenced in area provided. Have you considered that cost?

Allergies – make certain that your child doe not have an existing allergy to dogs. Notice if they have any reaction when around other dogs. However, some good news! CNN/Health has done extensive research and has come up with some surprising results. Contrary to what many parents might think – their studies have shown that infants who grow up with cats or dogs may be less likely to suffer from allergies when older. Pets in early life help a child develop various immunities.

If you have an older child understand that when they leave for college—the dog is yours!

If you detect any abusive behavior of your child with the dog – this could be a warning sign of other problems. Watch them carefully and if the behavior persists a psychological evaluation might be in order.

Serious consideration should be given to having your dog properly trained.

Help your child to understand things that might get a dog excited. Never attempt to take food away from them or disturb them while they are eating. Do not approach them when they are not expecting it. Loud or unexpected noises can also disturb a dog. If your child has a friend over for a Play Date – monitor this child’s behavior and reaction to the dog very carefully.

Adding a dog to your family life can be a positive and healthy experience. They provide protection, companionship, responsibility and also a great deal of enjoyment.

“He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours faithful and true to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion.” Annonymous.

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