Parenting
Benefits of
Companion Animals for Kids
In Australia, pets outnumber people by several million. Australia is home to an estimated 29 million companion animals, with two-thirds of households having at least one pet. In fact, Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world! Are we on to a good thing? Let’s take a look at the benefits of companion animals for kids.
Does my child need a pet? Chances are, they want one! If you don’t already have pets in your household, your child has probably asked for one many times. Kids love the idea of animal companions; they can be cute, cuddly, entertaining … but often mean more work for mum and dad. Before you put your foot down and say no, research has shown that children can benefit from animal ownership in many ways.
The best of friends
A pet will never exclude your child or deliberately hurt their feelings. Children who struggle with loneliness and physical isolation can find a special friendship with an animal, bird, fish, or reptile. Pets also make the best confidantes. A child can talk through a problem with a pet and know that they won’t be judged. When a child has a pet, there is always someone to share their feelings with. Pets are great reinforcers of self-esteem!
Social growth
Having a pet gives children something to talk about. Children find it easier to form friendships when they have a common love of cats, dogs, guinea pigs, mice, fish, birds, or whatever exotic pet they may own. Meeting up with friends to walk the dogs together is a wonderful opportunity for play and conversation. Older children can get
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together to teach their pets tricks, or meet like-minded friends at local pet shows. Pets are great confidence boosters!
Emotional growth When a living creature is dependent on you for their every need, the opportunity for personal growth is limitless. Understanding when a pet is tired, hungry, playful, sick or uncomfortable helps your child develop appropriate responses, care, and nurturing. Discussing the consequences of forgetting to refill a water bowl, or asking your child to think how they might feel if they were ignored and not played with, helps your child build empathy and become aware of the need to respect other forms of life. Your child will also learn about important choices, like choosing to miss out on a toy or event because a pet needs veterinary care or attention. Choosing to adopt a pet from a shelter is a great lesson in compassion, and very rewarding for both your child and their pet.
Intellectual growth A pet can also encourage stillness and focus. For example, children who are learning to read love to read to their pets.
Reading because you must sign off your
Your Local Families Magazine August / September 2022 www.familiesmagazine.com.au
