Gift pets to kids responsibly

Parents need to assess if their child is ready to take on pet caring responsibilities

- Joanne Soh Lifestyle Correspondent

Getting your child a dog or cat for Christmas may seem like a memorable gift, but parents need to be mindful of time commitments, care responsibilities and financial costs, as well as the child's readiness for a pet.

Dr Nicholas Chng, lead veterinarian at Mount Pleasant Veterinary Group's Jalan Gelenggang branch, noted that gifting pets to children during the festive season is a recurring trend.

"While the intention might be sweet, pet purchases and abandonment often peak during festive seasons," said Dr Chng, 45, based on his observations over the years.

"Pets are living beings with sometimes complex needs that extend far beyond just a season or symbolic year."

He added that festive impulse adoptions are often driven by a desire to create a memorable moment. When the initial novelty wears off, families quickly face the realities, such as significant time commitment for training, feeding and play; unexpected financial costs for food, accessories and veterinary care; and potential behavioural challenges or inconveniences.

There are, of course, numerous benefits to having a family pet. Caring for a pet can teach children responsibility, empathy and compassion, while fostering nurturing skills and boosting self-esteem.

Pets can also strengthen family bonds by providing a shared focus for activities and responsibilities, encouraging a sense of unity within the family.

Early exposure to pets may also help reduce the risk of developing common allergies and asthma, said Dr Chng, citing various studies. He added that children with dogs tend to be more physically active.