Explaining to Children Why They Cannot Have a Dog

This sounds like a predicament I was in as a child. I just did not understand why my parents could not buy me a dog! I just knew I could take care of one all by myself! (RIGHT.) Kids know everything and can do everything, right? Oh, to be a kid again!

I think taking your kid to an animal shelter and letting them see the responsibility that goes into taking care of an animal is a great idea. And if they just need a cuddle fix, I know around here you can go into pet shops and ask to play with one of the puppies. This is good because the puppies get attention and your kid gets to satisfy that need to snuggle. No purchase required! Hopefully there is a place like that close by. You just have to worry about the battle and begging at the end of the trip, but you could always bribe by saying, "stop asking if you can have a puppy and I'll bring you here again next weekend!"