You must consider what goals you have for the experience and how much effort and expense you can afford. Children benefit from the companionship of an animal and from the responsibility of caring for another living being. However, children can't be responsible for the pet s care without the support of adults. They will not enjoy a pet that becomes a chore, and neither will you. Children should not have to bear the loss or illness of a pet because they were forgetful.
Families sometimes plan to use pets to teach children about reproduction.
If you plan to breed your pet, look into the financial burden as well as the time commitment necessary to raise young animals that will make good pets. Consider a visit to the animal shelter to help children understand that we need to find homes for the pets that are already here before we make more. You might even foster a pregnant cat or dog through the humane society. Some humane societies do not have facilities for new born puppies and kittens. Farm animals and exotic animals imported for the pet trade offer many pet options.