by Susan E. Murray
My first pet was named “Muggins.” Actually, he was my uncle’s cat. In a 16-year-old “generous” gesture one day, he said I could have half of him as my own—the back half! A couple of years later, my grandparents took me out to a family friends’ ranch, and we came home with a black terrier-mix puppy. My grandfather helped me choose her name, “Topsy.” She was my closest companion. Those first pets were the beginning of my life-long enjoyment and respect of God’s creatures. They also had a role in teaching me responsibility. I learned some of the same things I invite you to consider in teaching your children how to enjoy, respect, and understand pets.
*Let your dog or cat eat without being disturbed.
*Never take a toy or bone away from a dog’s mouth unless the dog is willing to drop it. Explain that some pets become very attached to their balls and toys, just like children do.
*Teach your children to pet animals in the direction their hair lies. Don’t let them poke a pet’s eyes or throw things at them. Teach them that animals are not toys.
*Show your children how to observe body language. Since dogs and cats can’t talk as we do, they communicate by body language. Dogs that are upset usually have their tails up, ears back, hair standing, and are barking, growling, or showing their teeth. Cats who have their hair standing, tail stiff, ears back, are hissing, or have dilated eyes are being bothered. Teach your child, “If you ever face a dog showing these signs, do not scream, run, or stare into the animal’s eyes. Walk away slowly with no fast movements.” It’s a good idea to practice this with your child.
*Don’t invade a pet’s space. Tell your children to never put their hands in a car window or dog pen. A dog might growl or even bite to defend his territory.
*Don’t get near or try to stop two dogs from fighting. Tell children to get an adult to help.
*Teach your children to wash their hands after playing with their pets because of bacteria. Discourage your children from letting their cat or dog lick their faces.
* Teach your children to always ask for the owner’s permission to pet an unknown dog or cat. Once your child has permission, have her approach the pet slowly, allowing the dog or cat to smell her scent before petting the animal.
*Teach your children to enjoy and appreciate the personalities and peculiarities of their pets.
Researchers are exploring the healing power animals generate. Tropical fish are stress busters for the anxious and depressed, and animal relationships speed recovery from heart attacks. God uses pets to help us understand unconditional love.
Suggestions:
1. Plan a special family worship, focusing on God’s gifts of animals in our lives.
Susan Murray is an assistant professor of behavioral sciences at Andrews University.
