28 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • November 2019
Before surprising your children with a new pet as a holiday gift this year, consider your family's lifestyle,
finances and personality to decide what pet is right for you.
According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, raising children with pets can benefit
a child's self-esteem and self-confidence and can encourage compassion and empathy. But, unlike a sweater
that you return if it doesn't f it quite right, choosing a pet shouldn't be an impulse buy.
According to Barbara Poe, a humane society manager, 75 percent of the animals returned to the shelter
result from families adding a pet to their households without considering the challenges.
"This percentage rises when talking about the return of puppies. Puppies require a lot of time, socialization
and training," Poe says.
WRITTEN BY CHRISTA MELNYK HINES
Choosing the
BEST PET for
Your
FAMILY
WRITTEN BY CHRISTA MELNYK HINES