Many children light up at the mere site of an animal, whether it is a family-friendly dog or a giraffe. But resist the temptation to buy your child a pet as a toy. Keep in mind that pets become members of your family, requiring almost as much attention and care as your new baby.

They also create their own ecological paw prints in the food, toys, bedding, and care they will require. So, if you are not ready to spend the time, energy, and money involved in feeding, walking, training, bathing, amusing, and loving a pet, consider one of these options instead.

Stuff It

Buy your little one a stuffed animal instead. If he has his heart set on a furry new pal, maybe he'd like a Build-A-Bear pet? Pet choices range from the traditional bear to dogs, cats, and bunnies, as well as dinosaurs and wild animals. And if you purchase one of their special wild animals, such as a cheetah or a panda bear, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the conservation efforts of the World Wildlife Fund.

Adopt-a-Shelter

Animal-loving kids can show their love for pets by helping out at their local animal shelter. Talk to your local organization to learn how you and your child can help. Even just bringing your child along to pet or play with the animals may put a smile on her face while showing the animals some love.

Just be sure to use caution and never expose your child to pets that have not been evaluated by an animal-training expert and certified as safe for contact with children. And never leave your baby alone with a pet regardless of its disposition. Other animals or loud noises could combine to make an animal act differently than it would under normal conditions.

Pet Sit

If you and your baby love pets, but cannot have a pet of your own, try pet sitting for a friend or fostering a pet from your local shelter. It will give you both a chance to love and care for an animal without the commitment of a full-time pet.