Taking care of pets can be a great way to teach children responsibility, but it's important to be realistic (现实的). If you're keen on bringing an animal into your home and you've designed a plan for its proper care, here are some choices.
• FISH
First-time owners should consider getting cold-water fish as no tank (鱼缸) heater is required. They should research what kinds of fish get along in the same tank, and be aware of life expectancies-some goldfish can live up to 20 years.
• RABBITS
Though rabbits, or nickname bunnies, may seem like a lovely choice, they can live up to ten years and require an amount of care similar to that of a dog or cat. They have their special diet needs, and often don't behave well around small children. Each year, quite a lot of Easter bunnies become homeless when families feel tired of them.
• GUINEAPIGS (豚鼠，荷兰猪)
These small animals are ideal starter pets. Their cages must be cleaned daily, and they require toys to keep their ever growing teeth in check. Once they're used to the new way of life, guinea pigs need daily exercise in a small room without cracks or holes for escape. They don't want to be alone, but if you get two, make sure they're the same sex or they'll have babies.
• BIRDS
Fond of a fixed timetable, birds require feeding at the same time each day. Cages should be cleaned daily and disinfected (消毒) weekly. Birds clean themselves by bathing in dishes of water and grow in cages big enough to spread their wings and fly a short time.
