Moms Talk: What Pet Is Best?

Each week in Moms Talk, the Haverford-Havertown Patch’s Moms Council of experts and smart moms take your questions, give advice and share solutions.

So grab a cup of coffee and settle in as we start the conversation today with: What would make a good family pet?

Answer from Mom’s Councilmember Denise (mother of 1): Hallmark has these mini frogs that come in a little square aquarium for about $25, including food. They are easy to care for and the food lasts at least a year since they only need to be fed twice a week. Another pet that seems easy and entertaining to small children without being too costly or much work are fish.

Answer from Mom’s Councilmember Emily (mother of 2): I think parents need to keep in mind that they will likely be doing the brunt of the pet upkeep; therefore, whatever their tolerance is should be the main factor.  It might be a good idea to start with something low commitment like a hermit crab, fish, or the little frogs (all allergy-free as well); then see if you're up for a higher-maintenance pet.

Answer from Mom’s Councilmember Julie (mother of 3): Though we have had a cat since before our children we born, they have expressed interest in having their own pet.  We started out with fish and my oldest now has an African dwarf frog. It is his responsibility to feed the animals, though it may take some reminders from my husband and myself. He also needs help with keeping the tank for the frog clean. So there is no pet that they could take care of all by themselves, but it is understood that they have the bulk of the responsibility. The African dwarf frog has to be the simplest pet we have come across so far though.