World Frog Day is coming up on March 20th. While most people prefer dogs and cats, there are also plenty of people who enjoy having less traditional pets. Frogs can actually be pretty good pets for kids. If your little one has been asking for a pet, you may want to consider a frog. A Crown Point, IN vet offers some information on this below.
Benefits
One good thing about frogs is they are pretty low maintenance. You won’t need to walk them or train them: basically, just feed them, keep their habitat clean, and watch them do their thing. The biggest thing is making sure that the environmental conditions in their tank are correct. They’re also gentle, so you don’t need to worry about your little one getting scratched or bitten. (We also think they’re pretty cute, though not everyone agrees.)
Things To Consider
The CDC advises against giving pets under the age of 5 reptiles or amphibians. We agree. One reason is that some reptiles can carry salmonella. Your child will need to thoroughly wash their hands before and after touching their frog or its things. Frogs may also not be a great choice for households with senior citizens or anyone with a compromised immune system. Another thing to keep in mind is the fact that frogs are nocturnal, and may keep your little one up at night. You’ll also need to regularly buy and handle live bugs, which can be a dealbreaker for some.
Choosing A Frog
Different types of frogs have different needs. Some are aquatic, some are arboreal, and some are terrestrial. Do some research before choosing one. Some are better ‘starter frogs’ than others. There are a few that are good options for kids. Pacman frogs got their names from the fact that they look like Pacman when they eat. They also come in many colors, including pink and blue. White Tree Frogs are another good option. These guys are pretty lazy, but they are also quite docile, and don’t mind being handled. If you want an aquatic frog, the African Dwarf Frog may be a good candidate. American Green Tree Frogs are small and bright green, and look a lot like everyone’s favorite frog, Kermit. Ask your vet for advice and care tips.
As your Crown Point, IN animal clinic, we’re always hoppy to help! Contact us anytime!
