Ivie’s first pet..
October 1st, 2009 at 4:20 pm by Kristi Leigh under Uncategorized
"Blue one"
We just picked this lil’ fishie up at the pet store. My 2-year-old is very creative, so she named the fish “blue one.” 
I got the idea to buy a fish, after seeing how excited she got when Elmo would talk to his goldfish on Sesame Street. But we decided this little beta fish was prettier. My husband and I have been wanting to get a dog for a while now, but are just afraid to make the commitment. We know once we get one, it might smell up the house, we would have to get a sitter when out of town, etc. It just seems like too much of a responsibility right now. (We already have a kid and one on the way!) It’s almost like getting another child! I was open to a cat, but Nick isn’t so keen on that idea. He says they just run away and hide from you all the time. I’ve never owned one, so I don’t know… The fish is fine for now.:) What was your first pet? Any suggestions for other small pets that are easy to take care of?
My first pet were a few cuddily, fuzzy, rats. I have so many great memories of some black&white fancy rats from our local pet store. They are loving, smart, tame and do not have a reputation for biting that hamsters and gerbils have. They are very sensitive and adapt well but do need attention like any small pet.
Rats love to be handled and show a lot of affection. I was taught when I was 4-5 to hold them close to the body so they don’t fear heights! Guinea pigs are adorable pets too and live to about the same age: 3-5 years. I really don’t know though if guinea pigs recognize individual people or their names. Plus a rat’s diet is very easy and affordable: Fruits, vegetables, nuts and even some meat. Basically, it’s leftovers from dinner instead of having to always obtain special chow from a pet store.
I think they’d make a great starter pet for children because it teaches respect for animals that may be over-looked or may not have the best reputation for not being something to fear. It also carried for me the lesson to learn how to think for oneself in future situations regarding how to make life decisions/perceptions based on the “not judging a book by its cover” ability.
Later on, we had some budgies. Birds, in my opinion, are the next step up because they require patience to train for handling along with more special care issues. Hope my experience helps.