4 Reasons Why Getting a Pet Will Benefit Your Kids
Have your kids been begging for a cuddly kitten or a perfect little pup for a while now? Considering the amount of care that a pet requires, you may be on the fence in terms of deciding whether to welcome a furry new family member into the household. The reality is that having a pet promises a host of wonderful benefits for your children. A few of these are highlighted below.
Pets teach children responsibility
As mentioned, pets require lots of care and attention. Your child will quickly learn that their cute companion will need to have their needs met in order to be happy and healthy. The great news is that children from as young as three or four can play a role in caring for their pet and exploring what it means to be responsible. For example, young kids can take on the duty of playing with their cat or dog or brushing their hair each day, while older kids can take them for walks and ensure they always have access to fresh food and water.
Along with physical tasks and duties, you can also take the opportunity to teach your kids about financial responsibility and budgeting by having them contribute to the cost of their pet’s food or their regular check-ups at the trusted local veterinarian Johnson City TN.
Pets teach children compassion and social skills
According to various studies, pets can help both kids and adults to be more social. This means they can also assist children in developing important social skills that will come in handy throughout their lives. Dogs and cats are great for teaching younger children all about compassion and gentleness from an early age, too. Just steer clear of adopting an overly boisterous puppy that loves to rough-house as this could have the opposite effect on an enthusiastic, energetic toddler!
Pets can help to boost immunity
Your kids are likely to spend a significant amount of time outdoors when they have pets to play with. This equals more time spent playing in the mud and sand, which has been proven to have a positive impact on a child’s immunity. Further research shows that children who live with animals also have a drastically reduced risk of developing asthma or allergies later on in life. There are several vets and doctors who also go as far as to claim that pets are the new ‘probiotic’ for children.
Pets encourage family bonding
Who doesn’t enjoy playing with that cuddly ball of fur? As a result, your family members are certain to spend more quality time together. Think of all the leisurely family strolls you’ll take and how often you’ll all gather in the living room to watch a movie with your kitten jumping from lap to lap. There is definitely something to be said for pets strengthening family ties.
So, if you are financially ready and you have the space available to welcome a pet into your home, you now have at least four reasons to do so. Go for it!
