We have promised to add a dog to our family if the children can care for a stuffed one for 30 days. The routine requires two 10 minute walks per day, one feeding, and two water bowl refills. If they miss a day, then we reset the 30 day clock. If they are late, then the dog poops inside and they have to clean it up (has happened already). So far they have a week of care under their belts and are showing a lot of resolve.