Do children and pets get along?
There isn't one answer for that, but before having the two share a house, you'd better find out.

Whether you are a pet owner wanting children, or a parent wanting pets - there needs to be research done to see if your pet will be good around children.

One good thing about having your kids grow up with pets is that they don't develop a fear of them - as most kids do who aren't around any. Growing up with animals, they will be more comfortable with them and around them. One draw back to that, though, is that they won't have any problem running up to loose animals or animals in the park - and that isn't always a good idea.

(PARENTS: JUST BECAUSE YOUR CHILD LIKES ANIMALS AND ISN'T SCARED TO BE NEAR THEM, YOU SHOULD NEVER LET YOUR CHILD RUN UP TO AND START TOUCHING A STRANGER'S DOG - EVEN IF THEY ARE ON A LEASH. ALWAYS ASK THE OWNER IF IT WOULD BE OKAY FOR THE CHILD TO DO THAT. SOME ANIMALS GET SCARED WHEN KIDS RUN UP TO THEM AND YOU MAY NOT KNOW HOW THAT DOG WILL REACT.)

If your pet is going to be around kids (yours or someone elses) it is always important to ask questions when you are looking for the perfect breed of animal. You need to find out how they are around infants, are they vicious, do they tend to have an instinct to be vicious (when it comes to territory and property).

When asking these types of questions, you should always speak with a breeder - not just someone who works at the pet store. Many times they are not too knowledgeable about every breed of animal. Also, get online and do research. There is so much information out there to help you. But, first and foremost - talk with a breeder. They will usually know common characteristics of a specific breed, habits, risks, etc.

If you already have an animal and want kids and you find out that your breed isn't good with children, then you have a decision to make. If your desire is to have children, you should find a GOOD owner for you animal. Someone that will take care of them as well as you. It's a tough call, but you don't want to risk 'trying it out' and end up having a child harmed because of it.

When your children are around pets (yours or others) until you are familiar with how it will work out - keep a close eye on your child. For example: my aunt has 2 yellow labs and we were over for a holiday dinner. One of the dogs loves to grab things and take off running. Usually that's fine, but one time he decided to grab the sock off my nephew's foot [he was a baby]. Now, they might be playing, but they still have sharp teeth and they still can hurt little kids, even if it is unintentional. On the other hand, we have 3 pugs in our family and they have no problems around young babies or children. My nephew can lay on them, pull their tails, take their toys away - and they basically just sit and stare at him.

Research is the major key. Good training in a dog will help as well. Teaching them not to bite or jump and things like that. If you get a cat, it's good to de-claw them, because they have a tendency to lash out and bite in order to protect themselves.

Also, teach your children how to treat your pet or any pet gently and carefully. Teach them not to jump in their faces or reach for their faces quickly - that will frighten most animals. Be smart. Get information. You'll find something that will work out for what you want.

By Kari Newsom © 2004-2005