Best Pet Bets for Kids by Age

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What pet is the best match for what age of child?

Much depends on the temperament of the kid and the animal, of course.

Consider these guidelines when choosing the best animal for your child's age.

Under 3: None.

Ages 3-5: Guinea pig.

Ages 5-10: Mice, rats, fish.

Ages 10-13: Dog, cat, rabbit.

Ages 14-17: Birds, aquariums.

Once you've matched a child by age with the right animal, here's how to ensure everyone in your home - two-legged or four - stays safe under the new arrangement.

1 Safety Rules For Kids.

1 Supervise kids under age 4 with animals.

One or the other could get hurt. (Puppies have sharp little teeth. And cats get really cranky when 3-year-olds try to ride them.)

2 Don’t let young children around a dog while it’s eating.

They really like their food - and dislike those little bodies who interfere with chow time.

3 No child should walk a dog unattended – at least not out of the neighborhood.

What if another dog attacks them? The child could be hurt.

4 Keep young kids with snacks away from dogs.

They might lose a finger as well as the snack.

5 Have children wash their hands after handling an animal or its belongings.

Animals can transmit zoonotic diseases that can be especially dangerous for young children and pregnant women.

6 Never let children kiss an animal on the mouth or nose.

In addition to putting them front and center for a nasty bite or scratch, there are myriad health concerns that parents should be aware of and actively help prevent.