Why pets are good for kids

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Research has shown that students who may be reluctant to read out loud at school feel more confident reading to animals as they see them as a non-judgemental pal. Pets offer comfort and companionship to kids. No matter what mood they are in, children find support and security from their animal companion, which often means they are less anxious or withdrawn.

Having a pet helps to build family bonds as animals are often the focus of family activities. From walking the dog to playing with the family rabbit in the garden, having a pet helps to prompt a healthy lifestyle for their young owners, encouraging them to be outside and running around.

Stroking animals can lower blood pressure and in turn decrease anxiety, thus having a pet can help prepare kids when it comes to tackling homework and exams. Having a pet can help ward off feelings of loneliness and isolation, and keep depression at bay. These health benefits even extend to owning a budgie. Researchers who studied two groups of pensioners, who were given either a pot plant or a budgie to care for, found that after two years the budgie owners were more socially engaged. Although most parents want to protect their children from the cruelties of the world, having a pet allows kids to understand and learn about the cycle of life.

They help to bring families together and are often the focus of family activities whether that be through going for walks together, playing with the pets favourite toy or grooming and feeding. Pets give an opportunity for families to slow down their busy lives and just enjoy spending time together and with their pets. Pawise Ball Launcher. Zippypaws Pinata Dog Toy.

Kong Cat Curlz Teaser. Frolicat Zip. Shop All Cat Toys. Shop All Dog Toys. A study performed by Megan Mueller in surveyed participants from late primary age to post high school on human-animal interactions and their involvement in the community. Mueller's study found that those who had a greater attachment to their pets were more likely to contribute to the community, help friends and family or take on leadership roles. Caring for a pet by feeding and cleaning up after them teaches children how to be responsible.

Looking after a pet is a daily commitment that can teach children the importance of dependability and resilience through the hard work of providing for their pet. Nurturing pets can also help with the development of parenting skills, particularly for boys who see activities like playing house or babysitting as "girly".

Caring for a pet helps children to practice the nurturing skills required to be parents later in life. Wellness Core Shredded Chicken and Turkey. Shop All Dog Food. A study by Dr. Gern from at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that infants that grow up with pets are less likely to develop asthma and allergies.

He evaluated blood samples from infants after birth and then on their first birthday to look for changes in their immune system or evidence of allergic reactions. His research supported previous studies that have shown that allergies, eczema and asthma occur less frequently in children with pets.

In addition, animals have been proven to help with stress, anxiety, depression, autism, ADD and other psychological issues. Our course, there are caveats.

As much as I love and adore pets, I recognize that they are animals and they could harm a child because of food or toy aggression or if provoked.