Kids Want A Pet? Tips On Adoption From Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue

“But Mommy, Ryan has a dog, and I really like dogs now. Can we please get one, too?”

I’d be lying if I said that we hadn’t considered adding a dog to our family — the timing just never seemed right. After the death of our Cocker Spaniel Bailey in 2004, my husband wasn’t sure he could bear losing another pet. His job also required a significant amount of travel, and with my hectic position in Midtown, it just didn’t seem fair to bring a furry friend into the mix.

Ten years, one kid, and a shift to freelance writing from home later, the idea kept sneaking its way back into my head — especially after reading how pets could be beneficial for children with developmental disorders, like my son.

How do you know if your family is ready for a pet, though? Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue‘s Jason Cohen, who also runs a dog training business, offered us some advice.

CKC: First of all, tell us a little bit about Badass Brooklyn.

Jason Cohen: Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue is a 501(c)3 non-profit, all-breed dog rescue composed of a network of fosters and volunteers who work together to rescue sweet, loving, adoptable dogs from death row at high-kill animal control shelters. Since March 2011, Badass has rescued, rehabilitated, and re-homed over 1,400 dogs.

What are some signs that your child is ready for pet? Is a child’s age or maturity level more important when considering a pet?

It’s mostly about maturity level over actual age. One thing I always recommend is that parents need to understand that while the pet might be for their child, they are going to have to support the child in caring properly for the pet. Teaching our children how to interact with dogs prior to and after getting a dog is crucial. Having our children involved in the dog’s training and development from the start can help them build the best relationship.

Are there certain animals that make better first pets than others?

As far as good first pets, I think something that is docile, interactive, and easy to care for is a good start. Hamsters are really good, Guinea pigs, and maybe even fish to help teach responsibility and caring for a living creature.

With younger children, is it better to get an older pet or a puppy that can grow with the child?

I would not suggest getting a puppy with young children. People underestimate the amount of time, energy, and work that caring for a puppy actually is. I often see how much stress it can add to a family. Of course if the parents have the time and energy, it can be great experience.

I think adopting an older dog that is calmer and known to be good with children is a much better idea. There are so many wonderful dogs out there that will make great family pets. You can skip all the puppy headache, and when you adopt an adult dog, you know what you are getting.

How can parents ensure a successful transition from the shelter to their furry friend’s new home?

It takes time for a dog to transition into a new home — sometimes they won’t even go potty for days. Using a crate, and hiring a trainer from the beginning to help with a smooth transition and to give guidance can help, even if only for a few lessons.

Giving the dog space and time to adjust is imperative, making new things, sights, smells, and people into normal parts of their life takes time. I would hand-feed the dog and use training to feed meals to help build a better relationship. An easy one is using their meal to teach their name with marker or clicker training.

For more information on Badass Brooklyn Animal Rescue, and the adorable friends looking for their forever homes, visit the Badass Brooklyn website, or email adopt@badassbk.com.