Thinking of getting a pet? Read here

BROUGHT TO YOU BY JOHNSON’S BABY

Pets are an important part of a family dynamic. Besides – potentially – giving great cuddles and being – potentially – awesome protectors, pets can give kids a sense of responsibility. They can also teach our children a sense of compassion and how to treat others with kindness.

Read more:  Reasons your child needs a pet

Introducing a baby to your pet

If you already have beloved pets before you add a little human to your family, you will have to get your dog or cat accustomed to the new addition so they’re not seen as threats. Remember, like a toddler, they’re used to having all of your attention so here are 11 tips for when you introduce your dog to your new baby and 7 tips if you have a cat.

Watch: Dogs and cats meet babies for the first time

When is the best time to get a pet?

You may be asking yourself if your kids are ready for a pet. Well, use this handy guide to figure out if now is the right time to add a pet to the family. This is also a handy time to teach your kids about hygiene – after playing with the pets outside, use a hand soap like the Johnson's Gentle Protect range to get rid of all the nasty germs and dirt.

If your child has allergies then here’s some good news: it turns out that pets might actually help rather than aggravate your child’s allergies.

If you think you are ready for a pet, here are a few guides to help you choose the perfect one:

• The top 5 family pets
• Best cat breeds for kids
  
• A guide to exotic pets
• Dog breeds to be careful of around kids
  
  

Which pet is the best pet?

People can be very divisive when it comes to the dog-or-cat argument. Some people say cat owners are the luckiest parents in the world. From keeping baby occupied by making them laugh or even just being a comfort-buddy, cats surely are the best baby sitters!

But, on the other hand, you have dogs. Loyal, lovable and man's best friend, dogs have been known to be good companions to babies everywhere. They’re known for rescuing their tiny humans when they’re at their most vulnerable, and sometimes even giving their lives for them.

See how these dogs have enriched these kids lives:

• Hero dog gives life to protect kids from gunfire
• Rescue dogs bring joy to childhoods
• Pets playing with children
• Cute cats and dogs LOVE babies
  
• Baby Alia’s best friend is a sloth! 

Send us your pics of your kids with the family pet to chatback@parent24.com and we’ll include it in a gallery.