Is caring for a PET pretty much the same as caring for a CHILD?

[AviatorTom]

We have a dog, and caring for her reminds me of the days, many years ago, when I cared for my kids.

Sure, I don't have to change diapers for the dog, like I did for the kids, but she does need to be walked so she can "do her duty". Our dog is sometimes fussy eating, and has to be coaxed, much like I did with my kids when they acted not hungry but you knew they were. And, of course, you need to prepare the pet's food, make sure it has all its medicines, and visits the vet, not too different from what you have to do with a child.

Some people say it's good to have a pet before you have kids, it's good practice.

What about you?

If you have kids, or had them, and now have a dog or cat (or other pet), do you notice any similarities in the way you care for them? Is your pet rally just another version of a kid?

[jennifer_bloom]

I have not had kids but I think children small better then sick pets and are easier to clean up after during illness, but when healthy, they are more needs then pets, I have helped babysit my friends kids during social events and I thought it was more tiring than a university study session but less tiring than a physical high intensity cardio workout.

[sage2021]

Nope! My kitty 😺 cat pretty much took care of herself. All I had to do was give her food, water, and keep her litter box clean for her. Piece of cake taking care of her and I loved her soo ❤️ much for 13 years.
She was my best friend 🧡

[sage2021]

Thank you for the MHO 😀

[exitseven]

Pets are a lot more self sufficient than kids are. I could leave my cats home alone for the day with a water dish and food and they would be okay when I got home. If I did that with my kids the state would take a pretty dim view of it.

[exitseven]

Thanks for the MHO😎

[DJB72]

I can't leave my son out in the garden with a bowl of water all day. And if I did I seriously doubt he'd run up to me with joy on his eyes the way the dog does...

[avery58]

In some aspects, but caring for a pet is still much easier and usually cheaper. No wonder some people opt for pets instead.

[Tangxiaoxue]

它们在某些方面是相似的。例如，宠物就像孩子一样，需要定期喂食、关注、健康检查、陪伴和爱。

[AviatorTom]

謝謝你。

[Cubus]

For many left wing people, a dog or a cat has become an easier-to-maintain alternative to a child.

[Shiprex]

Its easier but more heartbreaking as they die sooner than children

[douride2]

In my limited experience caring for a pet is nothing like caring for a child.

[Anonymous]

Yes, it can be. But I never had a child, so I can't really compare it.

[Red_Arrow]

I never had to burp a pet.

[Nikki1989]

No, not even close.

[ohsheeT]

Pretty much caring for anyone.

[msc545]

Yes it is.

[Bklynbadboy12]

Nope not even close