Each gerbil weighs about four ounces, less than an apple. At the same time that children feel they can take care of and protect their pet, they also say that their pet makes them feel more safe and secure. Pets help children feel secure in other ways. From a child's point of view, they do not give advice, ask if your homework is done, or remind you to clean up your room. Because friends can be fickle, and even the most patient and tolerant parents make demands, a pet is a welcome source of unquestioning acceptance.
Companion animals have more consistent behavior, compared to humans.
How reassuring in a world that, from a child's point of view, is often confusing and sometimes frightening. I do not need to open my eyes to know that the sound originates with Buster, our tabby cat. His magically precise body clock rouses me just in time to turn off my alarm clock seconds before it rings. Buster and his sister, Ribbon, accompany me first to the bathroom, where I dress, and then with great dignity escort me to the kitchen where the first order of business is their breakfast. Cats and other pets may insist on being fed at certain times.