Kids and pets
Ask your vet about your own pet. This page is general information from the sources below.
Children and pets can be good for each other when a grown-up stays in charge. The American Academy of Pediatrics says parents do most of the pet care, and that children around age 5 or older can help with simple jobs. These pages cover care jobs, staying safe around dogs, and getting a dog or cat ready for a new baby.
Checked October 29, 2026.
Kids and pets
Sources
- AAP HealthyChildren: How old should our children be before we adopt a pet? (updated 22 April 2026) (checked October 29, 2026)
- CDC: Ways to stay healthy around animals (checked October 29, 2026)