Selecting Safe Pets (continued)

And just because you can buy a pet from the pet store doesn't mean it's safe for homes with kids. Animals that may not be child-safe include:

• reptiles (turtles, snakes, lizards, iguanas)
• rodents (hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hedgehogs, prairie dogs, mice, rats)
• amphibians (frogs, toads, salamanders)
• ferrets
• baby poultry (chicks, ducklings, goslings, turkeys)
• monkeys
• exotic animals

Reptiles transmit salmonella, a kind of bacteria, through their feces. The salmonella bacteria are transmitted through direct contact with reptiles or by touching surfaces and people who have had contact with reptiles. Pet reptiles are an especially bad idea if anyone in your house, such as infants and elderly people, faces greater health risks from a salmonella infection.

Dogs and cats can also spread infections. For example, pets that are often outdoors easily pick up ticks, which can carry diseases such as Lyme disease. This shouldn't stop you from owning a dog or cat, though. Using effective preventative tick treatments and collars can help decrease the number of ticks that find your pet. If you live in a wooded area, check your pets regularly for ticks.

Pay attention to which dogs aren't recommended for first-time owners. For example, some larger breeds, such as Doberman Pinschers, Dalmatians, and Great Danes, may not be kid-safe because they can grow to be more than 50 pounds. Also, bites from very large dogs can do a lot more damage than those from smaller dogs. And, of course, avoid choosing a dog that's been specifically bred to be an aggressive fighter (such as some Pit Bulls or Rottweilers).

Do Your Research

Common domesticated animals that can make good family pets include cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, and fish. But be careful about labeling a certain animal or breed as unquestionably safe. There are exceptions to every rule, and any animal may scratch or bite if put in a dangerous situation.

Before choosing any kind of animal for your family, learn as much as you can about your pet-to-be:

• Read pet guides explaining the various personalities, tendencies, and backgrounds of specific breeds in detail. For example, some dog breeds (such as certain terriers or Chihuahuas) are known for their feistiness and are considered less tolerant of kids — especially if they aren't raised with kids from puppyhood. Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers, on the other hand, have excellent reputations as family-friendly dogs. Also look around for guides (at your local bookstore, on the Internet, or at animal shelters) about taking care of different kinds of pets. If you're interested in rabbits, the House Rabbit Society is an excellent resource and offers printed materials on rabbits and rabbit care.
• Set up a consultation visit with a veterinarian to talk about what you're looking for in a pet and to ask questions.
• If you're thinking about buying a dog from a pet store, first ask where they get their dogs and puppies. Some pet stores purchase dogs from "puppy mills," where they may be poorly bred and, therefore, may have physical and/or behavioral problems. It's often better to buy a dog from a private breeder or adopt one from an animal shelter.
• Ask neighbors and friends about their experiences with various kinds of pets.

Taking Your Pet Home

These tips will keep kids safe and help both your family and your new pet adjust: