- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- dads today articles
- dads today q&a
- message boards
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
 |
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Purr-fect Pets
Having Fun, Staying Safe
By Alex Powell
A great game for dogs and kids is that old standby, fetch. "You take something and throw it so the dog can chase it," Dr. Wright says. "From the dog's point of view, you're giving him something to chase that doesn't involve him getting his mouth close to you and competing over something with you."
Cats love to bat and pounce, so any toys that provide this kind of activity will be enjoyed. Dr. Wright recommends purchasing a "cat dangler." These are similar in shape to a fishing rod, with toys that can be attached to the end of the line. "It's really good exercise for cats, and it's safe play, because the toy is at the end of a fishing line, not in your hand," he says.
Avoid any game that involves teasing, chasing or hard play biting. "For example, the thing you don't want your kids to do is hold something above their heads and have the dog jump up and try to get it," Dr. Wright says. "That's a very dangerous kind of play, and very different from throwing [objects for the dog to chase and fetch]." Finally, if you notice your pet is getting too excited or aroused by play, it's time to stop.
Karen Spring, a mom from Deptford, N.J., and her husband were worried about having their dog around their infant twins. Two years later, all three get along great. The Springs have worked carefully to build a good relationship between their children and their dog, Jade.
"We've taught the boys not to bother her when she's eating, and they are learning how to play with her outside," Spring says. "Jade has taught them what it means to be gentle to other creatures."
