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What is the best first pet for a child?

The AAP says to think about the child's age and maturity first, and to remember that a grown-up stays responsible for a pet's care at any age. Think about time, space, money, allergies and who will do the daily work. Peabody's ten-question quiz points to two or three kinds worth talking about, or an honest not yet.

Checked October 29, 2026.

Asked by families like yours and answered by Peabody editors. How we write and check. For your own pet, your vet knows best.

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