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| |    Pets for Preteens & Teens by Susan E. Davis reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P. By the time they reach the sixth grade, children usually are mature enough to be calm around most animals and can take on many more responsibilities, including regularly feeding, watering, and exercising pets. They may even want to buy or adopt their own pets, which should then be their own responsibility. (You're not off the hook entirely, though--parents still must ensure that all household pets are getting the consistent care they need.) Getting involved Preteens and teens also can get involved in many more extracurricular activities, including pet sitting or dog-walking for neighbors or friends, volunteering for animal-oriented organizations (including rescue societies, zoos, or shelters), and participating in organizations devoted to helping both domestic and wild animals. Particularly ardent teens may even want to take on after-school or summer jobs devoted to animals--at a zoo, local vet hospital, animal shelter, or pet store. The Humane Society of the United States, for instance, sponsors clubs devoted specifically to teenagers interested in helping animals. In the past, those clubs have championed such causes as spay-neuter laws, dolphin safety, and circus-animal safety (see www.nahee.org). 4-H clubs across the country also have programs that teach children to care for animals and give them opportunities to show them at fairs and other events. Similarly, both the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts offer badges in animal care for preteen and teenaged children. Such activities can give teens the kind of independence they crave (i.e., they're supporting their hobby outside the house) as well as access to adults who can teach them more about the animals they love. New time demands Conversely, children of this age often are involved in many activities--from sports to jazz bands, school clubs to jobs. They may not have as much time as before to romp with the dog, snuggle with the cat, or make sure the guinea pigs' cage is clean. Giving your older children a choice of rotating chores may help with the power battles that inevitably ensue at this age (e.g., "Would you like to be in charge of emptying the garbage or feeding Fido every night"?) Getting rid of a longtime pet, however, is not a good option, as it can cause both the animal and the child to suffer unduly. Besides, having the unconditional affection of a furry or feathered friend who doesn't care if your child isn't in the popular clique or didn't make the soccer team can be a great source of comfort during the turbulence of adolescence.
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