No matter what type of pet you choose for your kids, the first order of business is to discuss responsibility and care of the pet.  Too often, some kids get too rough with their pets which results in an unwelcome bite.  

Although fish are easy to maintain, dogs, cats, hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs will be handled by the kids on a frequent basis.   

Teaching them the proper way to interact with these pets not only provides a fun experience, but affords kids the opportunity to learn about different breeds, species, and characteristics which can later encourage them to learn more about nature in general, and responsibility in caring for living things.