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Among cages of dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters and birds, several families were petting animals, asking questions or filling out paperwork to adopt a pet on a recent Thursday night at the Frederick County Animal Control Center.

Leah Fleming, 44, of Walkersville and her teenage daughter were among them. The Flemings are seasoned pet owners. Currently caring for four dogs, three cats and two rats on their 1-acre property, they also board two horses and have had geese and ducks as pets in the past. On this evening, they were adopting two rabbits to add to the family.

Fleming has kept pets in the home since her daughter was a newborn and believes that owning pets teaches children there are "other living things out there and they have to take care of them."

She also feels that their pets are a source of "unconditional love" and companionship for her daughter, who is an only child.

Dr. Evelyn Clarence, a pediatrician with Frederick Pediatric Associates, also believes children can benefit greatly from owning a pet.

"They will learn how to care, love, show loyalty and affection for living things," Clarence said. "[Also] petting an animal can have a very calming effect on a child."

Linda Shea, humane educator for Frederick County Animal Control, says pets are "stress relievers" for children and "shy children can talk to a pet," providing "an outlet for expression." Pets instill a sense of ownership and responsibility in children as they learn that the wellness of the animal is dependent on their care.

Despite the benefits, before a family gets a new pet, Shea cautions parents to be realistic that a large part of the pet-care responsibilities will fall on them.

"As a parent, you need to understand that the pet is 100 percent of your responsibility as an adult," Shea said. "You certainly want to incorporate kids, teach them and involve them, but it ultimately comes down to the parent."

Brigitte Farrell, executive director of the Frederick County Humane Society, says parents should think about the time commitment of owning a larger pet, such as a cat or dog.

"It's taking on a lifetime companion," she said, adding that a dog can live 10 or 20 years and could remain when a child goes off to college.

Farrell suggests that families think about the time they have day-to-day to devote to a pet. If you are on the go a lot, a family "might want to think about starting small and manageable, like a hamster, gerbil or guinea pig." She says getting a small animal is also a "wonderful idea to teach a younger child how to care for and be compassionate toward an animal."

But Shea stresses that small pets do not mean less responsibility, since they "still need food, water, and a clean cage."

Cost is another factor Farrell says parents need to consider before getting a pet. Food, equipment, veterinarian care, boarding fees (if a family travels) and training can all add up quickly.

"People are surprised about the amount of care needed," Dr. Brooke Loewenstein, a veterinarian with Buckeystown Veterinary Hospital, said. With larger animals, the first year involves the cost of several wellness appointments, an operation to spay or neuter, and any sick visits, Loewenstein added. She suggests calling a veterinarian before getting a pet to learn "your pet's basic medical needs," as well as to find out about any health risks a particular animal might pose to child.

Experts agree that a parent's best bet is to do plenty of research before making a decision about owning an animal.

"If thinking about getting a pet, go observe and spend time with a family who has pets," Farrell said. "Spend time showing how to properly treat a pet."

Clarence advises parents to look out for rashes, runny noses or swollen eyes in their children following the visit that might indicate allergies.

And both Shea and Loewenstein think that, if possible, it is best to spend time with the actual pet being considered before bringing it home, in hopes of identifying and talking through any fears a child might have about a particular animal or breed.

"Each individual animal has its own personality and tendencies," Loewenstein said. "This needs to be considered to match the family's style."

Still, Farrell encourages families to consider pet ownership for its many benefits.

"Kids and pets have a special bond," she said. "The rewards of being a good pet owner are huge, especially for children, as long as it's the right animal for your family."

Frederick County Animal Control

-Shelters homeless animals and facilitates animal adoptions, educates the public on animal issues and enforce all state, county and city ordinances to protect animals.

-301-600-1546

-www.co.frederick.md.us Click "Health and Public Safety" then "Animal Control"

-To find a pet: www.petfinder.com/ shelters/MD103.html

Frederick County Humane Society

-Provides services, resources and programs for pet owners.

-301-694-8300; www.fchs.org

Small Angels Rescue

-Provides rescue and adoption services for small animals such as hamsters and guinea pigs.

-301-668-0404; www.smallangelsrescue.org

Children are naturally interested in interacting with and getting a reaction from the family pet. It's not uncommon for them to hide food or play a little too rough. In these situations, parental guidance is needed, according to the ASPCA. The following behaviors may indicate that intervention is needed to guide your child away from cruel behavior toward animals:

-Chasing a fleeing pet

-Putting an animal in a washing machine or other appliance

-Repeatedly showing off the inhumane handling of a pet

The following guidelines may help:

-Do not ignore or dismiss pet-unfriendly actions.

-A simple, clear statement such as, "We don't hurt animals" is far more effective than lecturing.

-If your child persists in hitting or teasing your pet, consult with a pediatrician or other expert.

Source: www.aspca.org/pet-care/kids-and-pets