Froggie Friends

Experts tell us pets are good for children because they foster responsibility. Moms know where that responsibility usually ends up. But not with our new favourite pet, African Dwarf Frogs. They’re green and low maintenance, making them perfect kids’ room pals.

You can find them at Eco Gecko Kids, a fun kids’ clothing and accessories store in Dalhousie Station. They come complete with a small tank, bag of food, instructions, a net and a turkey baster (for changing the water) for as little as $60.

We love the little eco-aquariums with bright rocks, a shiny rock gem and a short bamboo shoot. The plastic tank is small and sits on a base, making it light and easy to move around. There’s a small hole in the lid to drop tiny frog-food pellets through twice a week.

Amazingly, the tanks do not have a filter or require water circulation. Aside from feeding, the only maintenance necessary is tank cleaning (done quarterly) by removing the water and replacing it with fresh spring water. The frogs can stay in the tank while you clean as they cannot survive out of water for more than 20 minutes. Good to Know: Kids should be very careful handling them—partially because of their delicate nature and partially because they may carry salmonella.

The frogs live for two to four years, and we know first-hand that Eco Gecko Kids will apologetically replace them if they happen to pass away any time in the first few weeks. After that, they cost less than $5 per frog.

The African Dwarf Frog tank consists of a complete eco-system and we think teaching children about our interdependence with the environment is a good idea.

Add a little green living (creature) to your home. The kids will love it—and learn as well. Tested by Heather J., Calgary

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