The Power of Pets

[Promote hope, will & purpose]

Sarah Coburn

“Please!!! I promise I’ll walk it every day and feed it and brush it!!” This is a line heard all too commonly by parents as their child begs for a household pet. Often, parents roll their eyes and respond by saying it’s too much responsibility and that they will end up doing all the work themselves. However, research has found an incredible number of benefits for families with children in all developmental stages. Pets have the power to transform families and help children gain a sense of confidence and responsibility. The following excerpts discuss the power of pets for children of various age ranges.

Children between the ages of newborn-6 years actually span three different stages in the social and emotional cycle. It is during these periods that parents and caregivers demonstrate care that instills a healthy sense of hope, will and purpose in their children. As early as the age of three years, children begin to explore their purpose by forming relationships with family members and friends, and planning and taking on tasks. When asked to perform simple chores related to their pet including filling up their water bowl, feeding the dog or helping pick up toys around the house, your child is learning about responsibilities and obligations. Taking care of a pet and understanding their basic needs requires compassion and empathy that is critical for children to develop during these primary years. In addition to teaching responsibility to young children, several physical and emotional benefits have been widely studied. According to American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, children benefit from increased physical activity that is typically seen when a family owns a pet. Research has found that families who own dogs tend to be more active than families who do not own dogs. Dogs also provide a great excuse to get the entire family outdoors together, whether it’s playing catch or going on a walk around the neighborhood! Additionally, pets can provide companionship and unconditional love, which can help remedy a child’s feelings of loneliness and provide then with a boost in self-esteem if they are struggling with confidence. Research has found that simply petting an animal reduces stress and lowers blood pressure. Furthermore, as difficult as it may be for a family, the death of a pet can provide children with an important experience to gain a deeper understanding of loss and a period in which children can learn safe and effective coping mechanisms for their grief.

Pets are also known to be the world’s best listeners. They will intently listen to your secrets and thoughts without ever interrupting or judging. Because pets are great listeners, they are great reading buddies as well! Research has found that children who read aloud to dogs experience improvements in reading and writing skills, and their attitude and enthusiasm for reading increased. These findings were consistent across children of all reading levels, but the greatest gains were experienced by children who struggle with reading and writing. Facilitating special reading time for your child and pet can increase their confidence and language skills without the fear of making mistakes or being judged by teachers or classmates.

Which type of animal is best for young children?

If you think you may be ready to consider adding another family member to your clan, read on to learn some of the best pets for young children.

  • Betta fish are known to be the perfect “starter” pet for a young child. These fish do not require any special supplies; just a small amount of water and food.
  • Birds can also be a good starter pet as they are very social and relatively inexpensive. Parakeets and canaries are good choices, as they require minimal attention.
  • Smaller mammals such as hamsters, guinea pigs and gerbils can live in a small space and require fairly little care.
  • Cats: If you’re not quite ready for a dog yet, you may want to consider adding a fluffy feline to your family. Cats are independent and require less care and attention than dogs.
  • Dogs: Of course, dogs are great companion animals if you and your family are ready! Labradors, golden retrievers, pugs, cocker spaniels and Australian sheep dogs are all known for being child-friendly breeds.

Most important, before adding a pet to your family, be sure everyone is on board and you have thoroughly researched the animal you will be getting. Parents can explore their pet options by meeting with a member your local animal shelter or veterinarian. The following sites are also great places to start:

You may be amazed at the benefits you will experience with your new family member!

References

Sarah Coburn
Researcher

SUNKISSED FAMILIES TAKE AWAY TOOL BOX:


  • 1. When asked to perform simple chores related to their pet including filling up their water bowl, feeding the dog or helping pick up toys around the house, your child is learning about responsibilities and obligations.
  • 2. Pets can provide companionship and unconditional love, which can help remedy a child’s feelings of loneliness and provide then with a boost in self-esteem if they are struggling with confidence.
  • 3. Research has found that simply petting an animal reduces stress and lowers blood pressure.
  • 4. Because pets are great listeners, they are great reading buddies as well! Research has found that children who read aloud to dogs experience improvements in reading and writing skills, and their attitude and enthusiasm for reading increased.


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