At What Age is it Appropriate for a Child to Have a Pet?

You see them in pet stores and animal shelters: Parents and children looking for a pet. Fish, hamsters, dogs, and cats. There are several choices when it comes to giving your child his or her first pet, depending on where you live and how much you can afford.

But how young is too young when it comes to getting your child a pet? Will the pet be mostly the child's responsibility or yours? Is it best to start out small and gradually get larger pets as a child grows? Is the idea of getting a pet to teach your child responsibility okay? 

Let us, and your fellow residents, know what you think by typing your answer in the comment box below.