Getting a new dog or cat gives you an excited and overwhelming feeling. Pets provide us with physical benefits and help manage emotional health. For a family with kids, pets can help teach them values, empathy, and social skills. However, introducing the new family pet to your kids is another thing.
Kids can be overly excited, which can lead to rough play with a pet. Pets, on the other hand, such as dogs and cats, can bite, scratch, or show aggression when bothered or irritated. It is recommended to have your new pet settle into their new environment by giving them ample quiet time. In the meantime, keep the kids away to lessen the anxiety of your pet. When your pet is settled in, it’s time to acquaint them with your kids. Here are some tips on how you can safely introduce kids to your new family pet.
Open Space
Some prefer to introduce the kids with a pet outdoors, in an open area, or in a large room, to avoid pets feeling trapped. Give your kids an item that the pet will utilize, such as a feeding bowl, leash, or a Personalised Dog Tag, that would signify the pet being welcomed as part of the family. This act would involve the kids in remembering the occasion and providing a sense of responsibility.
Calm and Relaxed
Keep the kids calm and relaxed, as their high-pitch noises, as well as abrupt movements, may intimidate cats and dogs. For safety, you may also keep the pets in a cage or a leash. You may even provide a space where the pet can escape to such as a high shelf (for cats).
Curiosity and Patience
Some pets quickly warm up to kids. When you notice that your pet is curious about the new people around, encourage your pet and kids to interact. If your pet is hesitant, let your kids do some other activities with the pet still around. This will give your pet time to adjust to the kids’ presence. When you noticed that your pet is no longer apprehensive, ask your kids to sit, then bring the pet over calmly.
Set Rules
Kids may perceive pets as stuffed toys which may lead them to play rough with them. It is essential to teach them how to gently stroke pets and sensitive areas that they shouldn’t touch. Emphasize that pets are not toys, thus picking their ears, poking them, squeezing, and pulling their tails or fur is unacceptable. Additionally, teach kids that pets that are sleeping or eating should not be bothered. You can also mention the consequences when pets are offended.
Warning Flags
Adults should also look out for signs that their pets are feeling threatened, such as freezing, a stiff posture, hissing or growling, and hunching. Stop the interaction when your kids or the pet is uncomfortable, then try again later. Professional help is essential if you notice that your pet is aggressive towards children.
Your children will form a lifetime bond with your pets, especially when they have a great beginning. Remember to be patient to both parties and let them have their own space. Encourage them to interact when they are calm and ready. It is also best to supervise them during their interactions and to be observant of any hints that can bring harm to both kids and pets.
