The Humane Society of Wicomico County gives tips to parents who have pets

WICOMICO COUNTY, Md.- April 26 marks National Kids and Pets Day, which is celebrated every year to recognize the special bond between children and their mini companions, and responsible ways to care for them.

Playful pups to Purring Pals 

The Humane Society of Wicomico County works with the community to place animals into their forever homes. Executive Director Kimberly Nock knows how important it is to find the best match.

“I mean, I just remember all of my animals from when I was a kid, and I think they’re the best thing in the world, they give so much love- not just to the kids but to the adults and it teaches kids responsibility, and I think you couldn’t do anything better than to have an animal with a child.”

Kids vs Canines 

Children are children, meaning they don’t always know what’s best when it comes to animal interactions. Nock says these are things we should be aware of. “Just know your child’s capabilities, and what they’re able to do, what they’re willing to do. and don’t bring it back to the shelter when your child doesn’t want to clean up after the dog.”

Pets aren’t people, meaning they react differently if frightened, and have instinctive personalities. “Don’t go out and get a herding type of dog if you have young children, because that dog is going to try to herd them, and they’re going to nip and that’s not going to be something that you want…”

She goes on to say, “Cats bite, they scratch, that’s how they protect themselves They do it in play so it’s going to happen, so you want to teach your kid, respect to an animal.”

Happy & Healthy 

Nock has been an animal lover all her life and believes children and pets can live together happily as long as the relationship is healthy. However, that takes responsibility.

“Parents have to be realistic about the age of their child, what they’re capable of doing. You shouldn’t just be getting a pet just for entertainment for your child, you have to want that pet yourself, because if you’re expecting your child to help take care of that pet and they don’t, the idea is not to bring it back to the shelter. It’s your responsibility, you’re the adult.”

If you would like more information on the Wicomico Humane Society, you can visit their website, or if you’re interested in adopting a pet or dropping by, feel free to give them a call at 410-749-7603.