Which Pet is Best for a Child? It may not have four legs!

Children and pets, what a wondrous combination. Choosing the right pet can make the difference between a happy, positive experience and a disaster.

Birds can be a great first pet. Small birds such as a hand raised cockatiel or parakeet can be very tame and loving. Though a large talking parrot may tickle your fancy, the bite they can deliver can really hurt. The cost of the bird, cage and food is substantially less than the investment needed for a cat or dog.

Children need to be taught proper care and handling of any animal. Precautions concerning open doors, windows, and ceiling fans need to be stressed. Like any pet, birds do need love, good food and routine veterinary care, because it is "Your Pet...Health Matters."