Kids and pets grow together

My 3-year-old has taken to feeding our dog dinner with the duty and honor of the Swiss Guard, albeit with the consistency of, well, a 3-year-old. Some kibble ends up on the floor rather than in the bowl, but the dog takes care of most of it. As a parent it’s both funny and rewarding to watch, as it helps my child learn while strengthening the bond they have with our family pet.

When it comes to having kids help with pet care, first and foremost, keep the tasks age-appropriate and safe. Great places to start are with feeding and watering, with supervision. Care-taking tasks grow a child’s responsibility and build connections between a child and pet.

With dogs, basic obedience skills of sit, stay and fetch are fun for both the child and the dog. Cats can learn tricks, too, though this takes more patience and is better suited to older children and teens. Even goldfish can be trained to do tricks.

Kids helping with pet care can be great for the whole family. The learning process can be a little messy — especially when the kibble scatters under the refrigerator — but the gratification of seeing your child’s skills and confidence grow is well worth it.

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In partnership with Willamette Veterinary Hospital

& Ark Animal Hospital

Josiah Moses, DVM

Eastgate Veterinary Clinic