Pets are a blessing for every family – and especially for every child. But why is that? In fact, there are countless reasons why dogs, cats and the like are good for children. You can find five of them here.
Pets make great playmates too – Shutterstock / StockLite
Pets strengthen children’s health, ensure better mental development, and always stand by the little ones. These and other benefits of a pet-child relationship may not necessarily apply in every case, but they are true nonetheless.
1. Children who grow up with pets are healthier
Scientific studies prove it: Children who grow up with pets usually have a stronger immune system, suffer less frequently from respiratory and infectious diseases in the course of their lives and are proven to develop fewer allergies.
2. Pets strengthen a sense of responsibility
Owning a pet also comes with many responsibilities, some of which children should take on. Whether it’s cleaning the litter box or walking the dog – children who grow up with animal companions usually have to take on responsibility from a very early age, which can have a positive effect on their later life.
3. More social skills and faster development
In addition to the sense of responsibility, the whole character is strengthened in children who grow up with pets. Especially when a strong human-animal bond is established, preschool children in particular often develop faster than their peers without pets. A child, for example, learns very quickly to respond to the needs of animals and thus develops an understanding of other living beings at an early age.
4. Pets have a calming effect on children
Whether it’s a cat purring while you’re doing homework or stroking a dog’s fur just before you fall asleep, the presence of pets not only has a positive effect on your mood and emotions, it’s also been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce stress.
5. Protection and fresh air thanks to animal companions
Dogs in particular usually act as protectors in families, especially in relation to the little ones. This not only feels good for children, but can even save lives in dangerous situations, such as in traffic.
Speaking of the street: children who grow up with pets are outside more often than children without animal playmates. Whether playing in the garden or going for a walk – fresh air thanks to pets is healthy and makes you happy.
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