Introducing children to the joys and responsibilities of caring for a pet can be a rewarding experience for the entire family, writes Dr Rose Hasegawa, medical director Te Are Manu Vet Clinic.

Cats and dogs are excellent companions who provide company and teach valuable life lessons. Encouraging kids to help care for these furry family members can help foster a sense of responsibility, build compassion and strengthen the bond between the child and pet.

When children are actively involved in caring for a cat or dog, they develop a deeper connection with the animal. Routine tasks, such as feeding, grooming and walking, create opportunities for positive interactions.

For example, brushing a dog’s coat or playing with a cat using a toy not only fulfils the pet’s needs but also creates moments of joy and trust. These shared experiences help children understand their pet’s behaviour and body language, fostering empathy and a sense of companionship.

Caring for a pet requires consistent effort, and assigning age-appropriate tasks to children can instil a sense of responsibility. For younger children, simple duties such as filling water bowls or helping with feeding can be a great start. Older kids can take on more involved tasks like cleaning up pet messes, brushing their coat, or even teach their dogs some tricks. Completing these responsibilities helps children develop organisational skills and accountability, lessons that extend far beyond pet care.

Encouraging children to take ownership of their tasks also boosts their confidence. Successfully teaching a dog a new trick or noticing a positive change in a pet’s behaviour after consistent care can be incredibly rewarding. It reinforces the idea that their actions have a direct impact, a lesson that resonates in other areas of life as well.

While involving children in pet care has many benefits, it is crucial to prioritise safety. Young children may not yet understand how to approach or handle animals properly. Supervision is key to ensuring interactions are safe and positive. Teach children how to gently pet and handle pets, emphasising the importance of respecting the animal’s boundaries. For example, showing kids how to recognise signs of discomfort in cats, like a twitching tail, or in dogs, such as growling or backing away, can prevent misunderstandings and potential mishaps.

Teaching kids to care for cats and dogs is about more than fulfilling a pet’s needs – it’s about nurturing a lifelong respect for animals and cultivating important life skills. With proper guidance and supervision, children can develop a deep bond with their pets, learn the value of responsibility, and carry these lessons with them into adulthood.