Caring for Pets in Child Care

Risks of Pets in Child Care
Although having pets in child care offers many benefits for children, there can also be risks. Here are some of the most common risks to weigh before accepting pets into your child care program:

Allergies. Some children may be allergic to pet dander. Remember to check with parents to identify any pet allergies before inviting animals into your child care setting.
Germs. Furry animals — especially cats — may pick up and transport fungus spores in their coats. Children petting the cat may transfer these spores to themselves and others.
Biting. Animals are living creatures, and their behavior can be unpredictable. Children may get bitten if a pet is mishandled. It may be a good idea to invite a local veterinarian to help teach the children how to care for pets before introducing a new pet into the child care setting.