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I know I know, I am fully aware of what I said just a few days ago, but bear with me.

The Kroger family of stores is using this “day” to talk to you about getting a dog.  As Kathy so eloquently put it last month, every kid should have a dog at some point in their life and I totally agree.  Kroger is also asking me to tell you about their pet insurance policy.  I know in this day and age that it may seem extreme to get insurance for a pet, but when that pet is a member of your family you will do wahtever you can to make sure it stays healthy and well.  Link gets her arthritis medicine everyday, me, not so much.

• Overview of Kroger’s pet insurance offerings:
  • Offered through PetFirst, Kroger pet insurance policies cover routine care and medical procedures for dogs and cats, and is available at more than 2,400 stores in the Kroger family including City Market, Dillon’s, Fred Meyer, Frye’s, King Sooper, Owen’s, Pay Less, QFC, Ralph’s and Smith’s. In addition to being available in-store, Kroger’s pet insurance can be purchased online at http://www.krogerpersonalfinance.com/pet-insurance/. Kroger’s pet insurance works at any veterinarian nationwide, with reimbursement typically occurring within two weeks. Coverage starts as low as $9.95 per month and right now, individuals who purchase online can save $10.

If you are looking to get a dog for your family there are certain breeds that are better than others for being around kids and/or large families.

• Family Friendly breeds:
  • Cocker Spaniel – These lap dogs are sensitive and sweet and enjoy the attention of children. Cocker Spaniels are obedient with training and friendly around people.
  • Pug – This affectionate breed loves being part of a family. Outgoing and mischievous, they make playful companions for children.
  • Golden Retriever – Similar to Labs in personality, Goldens are mild mannered and enjoy being around families and other people. These dogs are easy to train are gentle with children.
  • Basset Hound – This breed is good with children of all ages. They are known for their docile nature and gentleness. Their long backs need to be supported when they are picked up, and an eager child can accidentally injure them.

• Tips parents can teach their children regarding safe pet play:
  • Teach your children to pet softy, stay away from food dishes, toys and bones, and not to startle your dog or cat when it is sleeping.
  • Keep babies and toddlers at a level higher than your dog. Dogs perceive height as representative of their hierarchy. Keep your children off the floor when the dog is in the room.
  • Don’t give your dog toys that resemble your children’s toys or clothing. Stay away from fabric stuffed dog toys that resemble your child’s stuffed animals.
  • Involve your child in your dog’s care. Even just the presence of your child in the same room while your dog is receiving his favorite things or activities can help build a positive association to children.

For more information on family friendly breeds or additional tips on teaching your children about pet safety, visit Kroger’s Pet Health blog.

Plus Kroger is providing one reader with a $20 gift card that can be used at any of their family of stores, all you need to do is comment below and let me know what kind of pet your family has.  I will choose a winner on Tuesday, April 27 at noon on my clock.

For helping raise awareness of National Kids & Pet Day I was provided with a $20 gift card to spoil {the pet in my life} and a $20 gift card to giveaway to a reader so that they could do the same by the Global Influence Network and the Kroger Co. The thoughts and opinions here are my own. Obviously.