Children And Pets

In this era in which the virtual is increasingly imposed on the tangible, it is good to remember the multiple benefits that we human beings receive by growing up together with a pet. Children and animals should form an inseparable couple. Below, we tell you why you shouldn’t deprive your child of the company of a furry, feathered, or scaly friend.

Children and pets: a good association

As long as it is within your means and if you agree to take on the responsibilities that come with it, give your children the opportunity to grow up with one or more animals.

There are countless studies proving that children who grow up with these living beings, in addition to being happier and having ideal playmates, also achieve better cognitive, physical and socio-emotional development. Eg:

• They get sick less.
• They are more responsible and supportive.
• They learn to relate better to their environment.
• They feel more self-confident.
• They reduce the chances of suffering from allergies, asthma and stress.
• They engage in more physical activity.

The choice of the animal for your child

Even if dogs and cats are certainly the most popular, when choosing a pet we must not underestimate the quality of the relationship that your child could establish also with:

• Rabbits
• Fish
• Hamsters
• Canaries

The ideal would be for the little ones of the house to come into contact with animals from the cradle, especially to prevent them from suffering from allergies later on. However, keep in mind that your children will only begin to understand that animals are something other than a toy from the age of three.

For this reason, remember that you have to choose the right pet for your children and check their play.

The responsibilities of children towards pets

Depending on the age of the child, in addition to making him understand that an animal is not a soft toy but a living being to be treated well, you must teach him to respect his times and moods, avoiding disturbing him when he eats or sleeps.

Furthermore, as they grow up, they need to be encouraged to assume certain responsibilities towards their pet, including:

• Clean the litter box.
• Wash the bowls.
• Give him food and drink daily.
• Brush his fur.
• Take them for a walk.

Make sure that living with animals does not cause health problems for your children

For your peace of mind, make sure that the close bond that will surely be established between children and animals does not cause them any health problems.

For this, you must periodically take the animal to the vet for routine checks. In addition, you will have to undergo antiparasitic treatments, both internal and external, as well as the vaccinations indicated by the specialist.

Teach your children to wash their hands well after playing with their friend, not to allow them to get on the bed and to keep the rooms of the house always clean and ventilated.

Other issues to consider in the relationship between children and animals

If you already have an animal at home while your baby is on the way, consider that you will need to take measures so that you do not feel jealous for the baby. You will have to prove to him that he will not be replaced by the newcomer.

If the animal was adopted or bought after the birth of your child, and depending on the child’s age, remember that you must explain to him that an animal is not a toy, that he must respect it and be responsible for its care.

Once you have taken these steps, you can congratulate yourself on the great decision you have made: to allow your children to grow up with pets as best friends, together and happy.