Children and pets

The ancient Egyptians loved cats; the Romans had their pets too; King Charles had his spaniels.

Throughout human history, in fact, humans and animals have had a special relationship. The range of animals that have been kept as pets is truly astounding - fancy a python, for example? How about a sugar glider? An iguana, perhaps, or a leopard?

There is something magic, for example, about a child and a dog racing across the lawn or the beach. Then again most of us have experienced the calming effect or found pleasure, even consolation, in sitting quietly stroking a cat.

Today science is taking this very seriously and there are many studies showing the positive benefits that can result from having a family pet.

Pets can be playmates and company, provide a chance for the child to learn responsibility for another; help the child get physical exercise and so on. But there's more to it than just picking up a puppy, kitten, guinea pig, budgie, fish or turtle from the pet shop or SPCA.

There are responsibilities, costs, and many other factors to be taken into account before the decision is made. Who is going to care for the animal during the day when everyone is at school or work? Can you afford the food, registration and vet bills? What is going to happen when you go on holiday? What will you do if after six months your three year old loses interest in 'her' cat?
 

The benefits of pets

A pet in the family provides many benefits for the children. Here are some -

  • Companionship - a pet gives a child unconditional companionship, love, gratitude and fun.
  • Self-esteem - studies have shown that children with pets feel better about themselves compared to those without.
  • Social skills - pet owners are less likely to feel lonely; many report that pets have increased their social contact.
  • Social responsibility - caring for a pet helps a child learn responsibility for the needs of others, being considerate to others, that others are different with different needs. Even the death of the family pet, distressing though it may be, is important for the child's development as he or she learns how to grieve for someone they love.
  • Stress reduction - studies have shown that a companion animal can reduce the stress experienced by children in situations such as medical examinations and being in hospital.
  • Physical exercise - having a larger animal such as a dog or horse means more regular exercise for the child.

But it doesn't stop there.

Smaller animals need to have their cages cleaned, fish and amphibians such as turtles need to have their water changed. Playing with a dog has been found to improve the ability of small children to develop jumping-type skills. Other studies have found that animals have a beneficial effect on children with disabilities, peer conflict and anger, and emotional development.

All in all then, a pet can bring many positives to a child's development. But it can't be left to the child alone. You, the parent, have a special responsibility to ensure that pet ownership is a success.
 

Further links: