YOUR CHILD IS RIGHT: THEY REALLY DO NEED A DOG

By Jackie Carleen, Founder, The Social Club

One of the greatest mutualistic relationships in biology is between the

human and canine species. Humans are able to enrich the lives of dogs by providing shelter, food and protection. In return, our canine companions offer physiological and psychosocial benefits to humans both young and old but what may be most compelling are the benefits dogs offer to children. Children exhibit immense plasticity and capacity to learn new skills while their brains are still in the development stage. The unconditional acceptance and non-judgemental audience a dog provides is an important aid for children. Whether practicing reading aloud, opening up in a therapy room to describe traumatic events and feelings, or learning new behaviors or skills, a dog’s mere presence harbors a feeling of stress relief and releases oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine - feel-good hormones in the brain. The volume of peer reviewed scientific journals regarding the impact of a dog’s presence and interaction with children is astronomical. In addition to hormone induction, other physiological effects include lower heart rate, cortisol levels and blood pressure. Psychosocial and cognitive benefits include a decrease in depression, anxiety, aggression, and attention deficit and an increase in empathy, social integration, school attendance, and stronger bonds with parents and friends. A study by Anke Prothman, M.D. indicated that children with pervasive developmental disorders including autism and various psychiatric diagnoses exhibited more social extroversion when around a dog. “ Children with pervasive developmental disorders (...) exhibited more social extroversion when around a dog. ”

While there are many positive impacts a dog has on a child’s life, it is paramount that canine body language and proper handling of dogs is taught to children. Children can be victims to dog bites if they are unaware of stress signals and engage in behaviors that encourage aggression. With proper guidance and education, we can enrich the lives of children and set them up for success through their canine connections.