More on Little Kids and Exotic Pets

There has bee some interesting reactions on blogs and message boards regarding a study that appeared in Pediatrics, the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The report suggested that homes with children under 5 not keep non-traditional animals, such as rodents, reptiles and monkeys, as pets, due to certain risks, including disease and injury. Because young children don't have fully-developed immune systems and often can be found putting their hands in their mouths, the concern is that they are vulnerable to serious or fatal illnesses.

About's guide to Exotic Animals, Lianne McLeod, DVM, takes a more critical view of the study and the resulting news coverage. Although she agrees that exotic pets might not be the best choice for a young child, she says that it's important to remember that all pets carry some type of risk and as a pet owner, it's important to be educated about all aspects of the animal.

No matter what your age or the age of your child, there are certain rules to keep in mind:

Never approach an animal you don't know.

Always wash your hands after touching an animal -- even a cat or a dog.

When purchasing a pet, make sure it is from a reputable pet store or breeder.

Make sure the pet is well-cared for and is in a clean, safe environment.

In any case, whatever animal you choose for your family, let common sense and caution be your guides.