Pets can be a lot of fun. They provide joy and help teach children values and social skills. While the majority of interactions between people and pets are happy and enjoyable, there are some important things to be considered in ensuring your family’s health and safety when introducing a pet into your home.  

How to make sure your pet is healthy:

• Get your pet from a source you trust (talk to a vet for suggestions).
• Make sure your pet sees the vet regularly and has all necessary vaccinations. 
• Keep close watch on your pet’s contact with other animals that might carry disease.
• Ensure that you and your children always wash your hands with soap and water after handling pets and make a habit of cleaning up carefully after your pets.
• Seek immediate veterinary care when your pet is sick.

Things to remember when introducing a pet into your home:

• Teach your children to treat your pet gently and with respect so he will enjoy their company.
• Involve your child in the care of your pet; this will help your child learn a sense of responsibility.
• Never leave a young child alone with an animal. Often accidents occur when a child teases a pet or touches him in a disturbing manner. This is especially important for young children.
• Make sure that your pet has quiet and comfortable place to go. You should not allow your pets to sleep with your children.
• Remember to have your dog or cat spayed or neutered. This will reduce your pet’s desire to roam.
• Do not allow your pet to roam unattended in a nursery.
• Don’t allow your pet to lick your child’s face or any cuts or scratches.
• You may want to reconsider a live-in pet if you child has allergies or asthma. If your child’s condition worsens after the introduction of the pet it is often difficult to find the pet a new home. If your child shows symptoms of allergies, consult your doctor for advice.  
• Pets do not make good gifts, especially around holidays.  Many families are too busy at these times to give the new pet the proper care and attention.

When introducing and integrating a dog into your home:

• Look for a pet with a gentle disposition. Older dogs are suitable only if they have been exposed to children. Puppies can be a lot fun but tend to be rambunctious and frisky around children. They also require a lot of time and patience for proper training. Involve all family members in the training so that the discipline and commands used are consistent and not confusing for the dog.
• Do not leave your dog alone in the house for long periods of time, if at all possible. If your house is often empty, a dog might not be the right pet for your family.
• Keep your dog safely confined in an environment that you know.
• Socialize your dog by introducing them to different types of people and situations.
• Dogs, like humans, need plenty of exercise. Encourage your children to join you on walks with the dog. When they are old enough, have them incorporate walking the dog into their daily physical activities as a regular part of their routine.

When introducing and integrating a cat into your home:

• Keep your cat indoors, it will protect your cat from harm and ensure that he has not come into contact with other animals that could carry disease.
• Keep the litter box clean; always wear gloves when cleaning the box and wash hands when done.

If a dog or cat is not the right type of pet for your home, there could be other choices. Consult a veterinarian for other ideas and tips on care.

A pet is a fun and welcome addition to any family, providing the family is ready for the responsibilities associated with having a pet. It is important to be aware that many types of pets are inappropriate unless your family is truly dedicated to caring for the pet as it gets larger. Pets are a big commitment; think carefully when deciding to introduce a pet into your home.

Remember, both your children and your pet will be happier and healthier if they know and understand the rules. Taking the time to be prepared and understand the realities of owning a pet will make for less trouble and heartache in the future.  

For more information:

• For information on how to avoid the diseases that pets can spread to people read Healthy Pets, Healthy People.
• The Humane Society
• Canadian Veterinary Medical Association 

Reviewed by the CPS Public Education Subcommittee

Posted: October 2003