It’s a well-known fact that kids who grow up with pets are healthier and happier. This is because the unconditional love and companionship of an animal can give children a sense of security, belonging, and purpose.
Pets also provide children with opportunities for learning responsibility as they care for their pets.
As children grow up, they can form a deep, lasting bond with their pets.
Pets are Good for Kids of All Ages
Introducing pets to your family early on can have positive effects throughout life. A study at the University of Buffalo found that people who grew up with pets were more likely to want them as companions later in life.
Having a pet as a child also reduces the likelihood of developing allergies, because it exposes kids to common allergens early on. Children who have severe allergies may want to wait until around age 10 to get a pet.
Children Who Have Pets Are Healthier and Happier
Studies show that children with pets are healthier because they experience less stress. When you feel better, it’s easier to be happy!
The children in the study were also less likely to have respiratory infections. Pets help reduce stress by encouraging exercise and play.
Children With Pets Are More Likely to Be Active
Kids who have pets are more likely to be active overall. These children were found to have fewer risk factors for heart disease, such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Children Who Have Pets Are More Likely to Develop Responsibility
Kids who have pets tend to be more responsible about other areas of life, too. This may include schoolwork, chores around the house, or extracurricular activities.
They’re less likely to have behavior problems. If children learn to be responsible at a young age, they’re more likely to carry those habits into adulthood.
Children Who Have Pets Are Better Adjusted
When you have a pet that loves and depends on you, it’s easier to feel confident. Kids with pets are more comfortable making friends, leading to better social skills overall.
These children are also often more optimistic about their future. Pets can help kids feel secure when they’re worried or upset by acting as a source of comfort and security.
Just 30 minutes of play per day is enough to have a positive effect on kids’ mood in the short term, so even short periods with your pet can have benefits.
In conclusion, why not get a pet for your kids? They will love you for giving them a new companion and in return, if you train it well in advance, they will take care of it.