can afford the cost of adoption or the
purchase price, giving a pet can be a
gift the family will appreciate.
Health & Fitness: Children with
pets tend to be more involved in activi-
ties such as chores, sports, hobbies, and
clubs. This will produce better health
and exercise causing them to be physi-
cally active.
Self Esteem: Owning a pet enhanc-
es positive self-esteem in children which
is a great benefit as they interact with
their peers in school.
Companionship: Ani-
mals provide social sup-
port and companion-
ship to everyone. Many
people think giving a
pet as a present during
the holiday season is a
great way to put a smile on
a face of someone who feels
lonely. However, when giving a pet in
the hopes it will provide companion-
ship, be sure to find a pet that’s known
for liking attention, such as a cat, and
not a pet that doesn’t require much
care or appreciate the attention.
The Cons
Allergies: Allergies must be con-
sidered for the families health. If your
family have never been exposed to a
cat before, visit a friend who has one or
spend some time at the shelter to make
sure no one suffers from allergies.
Returning a cat because of al-
lergies is hard on the cat and
the child.
Timing: Is your family
ready for a pet? Not all
families are ready for a pet.
Parents who want to add a
pet to their home should con-
sider if the timing is right. Your
home has to be guarded and protected
much like baby-proofing. Also, becom-
ing responsible for another member in
the home has to be considered as well.
Getting a pet for Christmas is a nice
gesture, but if the family is not prepared
nor willing to take responsibility for the
animal than, now is not a good time to
add another member into the home.
Choice: Pets are a big responsibility
and choosing the right pet can make
a difference. The child should help
decide what kind of pet they should
have but it should also be the family
member’s choice as well. Jodi says, “It
should be a family discussion, but we as
parents are the responsible ones. Lots
of research on what animal will be best
suited to your family’s needs.”
She adds: “You can turn the whole
experience into an extraordinary expe-
rience. By involving the whole family
you and your child will have a pet that
can be the most memorable part of
their lives as well as rescuing an animal
from the shelter.“
Keep the
athlete
in you
healthy!
Pure Water is great tasting and an
environmentally responsible choice.
Your body loses water during the day, so
it is essential to replenish it to get proper
hydration to maintain your best mental
and physical performance.
mom and dad, did you know Pure Water
costs less when collected at our plant!
Taste the Pure Difference
32 Parsons Lane, Devonshire
Tel: 236-1288
Fax: 236-7784/299-2837
E-mail: [email protected]
A Division oF Bermuda WaterWorks LImIted
www.bermudaparentmagazine.com
39