What pet would be best for a family with multiple young kids?

A.M.P: What pet would be best for a family with multiple young kids?
What type of pet would be best for a family with multiple kids under the age of 5? Something that isn’t too messy or loud, but that gets along well with kids. Something that kids can play with and help care for.
something besides cats or dogs. Thanks!

Answers and Views:

Answer by Julianne
a pony

Answer by Danger Erin
Animals and young children dont usually mix well at all.
Small animals that are somewhat easy to care for such as hamsters are prone to biting, and the children can very easily kill the animal handling them to rough – kids just dont know their own strength.

Honestly, a dog is probably the best option. A nice natured and gentle dog can still be played with and the kids can help to care for it, but with much much less risk of harm to the children or animal than there is with rodents and birds etc.

Answer by Catalina Uriarte
Ginnie pigs.
Unlike most small pets they have personalities and can even respond to their names. They are like dogs without all the energy and the mess. I know a daycare who keeps Ginnie pigs in the younger kids room because Ginnie pig are so patient with them. If anything get them when they’re young from a good store like pet smart of pet co. This way they are not at all aggressive and you won’t have problems with biting. I have had my Ginnie pigs for four years and they are so much fun. They like being in the family room and playing with wood toys. They squeak excitedly when you get home and will recognize everyone in the family. Do your research and be sure to be careful were you buy them from. Trust me they make great pets all my friends that own them love them.

Answer by Amanda Brooks
I would recommend guinea pigs, small but not too small, love cuddles and snuggling up, they chatter and make a variety of noises. Also the kiddies can help prepare the guinea pigs veggies, they will eat most vegetable scraps but no potato or rhubarb.