Virtual Pet Adoption for Kids

A virtual pet can replace the real thing.

Virtual pet adoption for kids can be a great alternative or prelude to real pet adoption. There is a unique type of emotion that comes from having a pet, and this is something that can be very healthy for children as they grow. However, not all families are ready for pets or in a situation where they can have one and care for it properly.

This is one example of how virtual pet adoption for kids can give the child that same bond he would get with a real pet but without many of the responsibilities of a live pet. If you are considering virtual pet adoption, here are some things to know.

Virtual Pets Explanation

Virtual pets have been growing in popularity in recent years. The idea behind them is similar to realistic baby dolls and other pretend toys for children except technology allows it to go one more step further. Virtual pets are sometimes called cyber pets or digital pets, and there are a wide variety to choose from.

Online Virtual Pets

One way that your child can experience virtual pets is online. There are many sites designed for children to play safely and for free with virtual pets in a virtual world. Using a computer with an Internet connection, he can create a pet or pick from a pre-created pet, complete the adoption process and then care for this pet online as you would a real pet.

Virtual Pet Toys

In addition to virtual pets online, there are also toys that you can buy to play with at home. Some of these come with an online version as well. There are plush versions as well as robot-like versions, and some come in the form of a hand-held device much like a video game where you see your virtual pet on an LCD screen. These are portable and easy to take anywhere.

Virtual Pets to Replace a Real Pet

Sometimes there is a medical need for virtual pets. For example, if your daughter has always wanted a cat but is allergic to them. Sometimes virtual pets replace real pets in situations where the family cannot afford the live animal or does not have the time or resources needed to devote to that pet. A virtual pet instead allows your child the experience of pet ownership.

Virtual Pets as a Teaching Tool

Finally, virtual pets can be great as a teaching tool to help prepare the child for a real pet. Since he will need to regularly feed and care for his virtual pet, it will get him into the habits needed to care for a live pet. This also gives the parent the opportunity to teach and to correct improper or unsafe behaviors.

References

• Virtual Pets and Pet Games