Your child is an important part of your family, and she has brought it to your attention that she would like a pet. How can you tell if she is ready or not?

Part of being a family is being open with one another, and now is the perfect time for a discussion about responsibility. Your child needs to know what being a pet owner means, both the joys and the responsibilities. Consider how old your child is as well as her maturity level. Explain to her what a pet would need from her in a way she can understand, and let her ask any questions she has. If she seems receptive to the idea and the rest of the family is on board, she may be ready to help care for a pet. Your local Mt. Pleasant, SC vet can offer additional guidance.