As we get closer to Easter again, I am reminded of how many pets are brought home at the spur of the moment and then neglected when the novelty wears off.  Easter bunnies are a perfect example of this.  In rabbit forums, you will often hear the recommendation to wait until a couple months after Easter to get new breeding stock, because by then people are tired of their Easter bunnies and looking for a way out.  It is a great time to get cages and supplies, too.

Small pets are a great way to introduce the responsibility of pet ownership to children, but too often the introduction is made when kids are too young.  I understand the temptation; my four-year old would probably love an aquarium filled with beautiful fish…for a couple of weeks at least.  But what happens when toys that make more sounds and do more tricks take over their attention again?   That rabbit, gerbil or parakeet may find itself shoved out of the way and neglected like an old toy, which is exactly how a young child would view it.

I think animals play an extremely important role in our social development, and I think every child should learn the joy and responsibility that come with pet ownership, but the decision to bring a new pet into the home should be made with care.

Be sure your child and family are ready for the new addition, and that it will fit in well with your lifestyle.  A dog would be a great pet for the active, outdoorsy family, while a cat is better for those like a lower key life.  No matter what type of pet you get, have an exit strategy in case it doesn’t work out.  Finding a new home is a better choice than giving an unwanted pet a life without attention.