Pets are magical creatures that bring joy. You can create great memories and have a best friend that will never leave your side. Aside from having someone that’s always happy to see you, pets serve different benefits of being in the home. Here are different reasons your child should grow up with a pet.
Strong Immune System
According to a study conducted by the Journal of Pediatrics, children who have a pet in the home have 31 percent fewer respiratory problems than children who do not have a pet in their home. Children with pets in the home have a higher immune response that makes it difficult for them to contract certain diseases.
Awesome Playmate
Pets make the best playmates. You can play indoors or outdoors and explore new things with a pet. Children who enjoy playing dress up will always have someone who’s willing to dress up and participate. This playmate is special because they can always spend the night!
Cuddle Buddy
On stormy, rainy days or when you’re ready to take a nap, you and your child have a designated pillow that also keeps you warm and cozy. If you don’t mind a little bit of drool, you and your little one can sleep the day away with your pet. Puppies are great for cuddling because they enjoy receiving attention and affection.
Self-Esteem
Children with pets have higher self-esteem than children without pets. Pets, especially dogs, give children courage and boost their self-esteem by being around. Pets are loyal and will do anything to make their family members happy. A child with a pet feels invincible.
Feelings
Pets can teach children many things, including feelings, such as empathy and compassion. Children can’t wait to hug and kiss their pet and take them everywhere they go. Pets teach children how to love and care for someone other than themselves.
Responsibility
Pets can help children understand responsibility. By giving children pet duty, such as changing newspaper or litter or giving the pet food and water on a daily basis will help children gain a sense of responsibility. It’s never too early to teach your child about responsibility.
Children with Special Needs
Children who have ADHD, Autism, and other disorders benefit greatly from being around pets. Children with special needs experience reduced blood pressure and enhanced communication skills. Pets give children with special needs a sense of belonging. There are different therapy programs that benefit both children and pets.
Being Active
Children who have pets in their home are more likely to go outside and play or exercise than children who do not have pets in their home. Having a buddy to play catch and fetch with makes things ten times more fun outside. Two is better than one sometimes.
Protection and Safety
Pets make children feel safe. Pets, especially dogs, protect their owner and their home. Whether you have an infant, teen, or everything in between, children are protected by their pets. Some dog breeds are more protective than others.
Reading Success
Children are more comfortable reading aloud to their pets than their parents. While reading to pets, children are relaxed and calm. When some children read to their parents, they are easily distracted and become frustrated. Children do not feel the need to perform to the high standards their parents set while reading to their pet. Children can take their time and sound out words until they get them right.
Less Stress
Pets have the ability to reduce stress levels of everyone in the home. Pets keep everyone calm and happy. When you’re happy, endorphins are released, making you feel even happier longer. Playing with your pet for as little as 30 minutes each day can relieve tons of stress and help household members get a good night’s rest.
Improved Social Life
Pets can improve your social life by helping you make new friends. While you’re walking your dog, you and your child can make new friends. You never know who has some of the same interests and hobbies as you and your family until you begin taking trips to dog parks and other public places pets are welcome.
Less Prone to Allergies
Aside from the benefit of an improved immune system, children who are raised in a home with pets are less likely to suffer from allergies. No allergies mean less health risks and trips to the hospital.
About the Author
Mary Nielsen is a passionate dog lover, blogger and part-time music teacher. She founded MySweetPuppy.net to share her ups and downs of being a pet parent to a bunch of adorable mutts. When she is not playing with them or teaching, you can find her experimenting in the kitchen.
