I grew up with several pets throughout my life and I can honestly say that it was one of the best things for me. Not only did I learn how to take care of something, but I also was able to gain valuable social skills, responsibility and what it means to trust.
So, if you're a parent and looking for reasons to get your child a pet (because they keep asking and frankly it's getting annoying).Look no further than here for justification on why getting them that pet is possibly one of the best things you could do for them.
1. It teaches them responsibility.
Taking care of an animal (well really anything that is alive) is hard. Having your kid(s) take care of a pet, especially one that they perceive as theirs, can show them how to be responsible.
2. It teaches them how to be compassionate.
By caring for another living thing, a child can learn compassion.
3. It teaches them trust.
Trust is one of the most important things a child can learn at an early age.
4. It shows them how to respect another being.
At a time when respect is the last thing on many peoples minds, it will reenforce the need for it.
5.They learn how to be loyal.
They have this creature in front of them that wants nothing from them but love, loyalty, and affection, so it gives them an opportunity to grow in something that they otherwise might not.
6. They learn patience.
Working with a new pet takes time (and so does teaching a dog tricks). By owning a pet kids learn the virtue of patience.
7. They learn the importance of physical activity.
Dogs need to be taken out on a walk at least once (maybe twice) a day. By giving a child a pet they are not only given an excuse to get outside but are also shown the importance of it.
8. It teaches them how to be social.
Believe it or not, people actually talk to their pets (here's to hoping that they don't talk back), so getting one for a child can help increase their social skills.
9. It helps them learn bereavement.
Losing someone is hard. When a pet dies, it shows your child that even though that happens life does move on and can get better.
10. The pet can reduce anxiety, loneliness and stress.
Especially for the child that doesn't have any siblings.
11. It's a way for boys to "play parent" without seeming "too girly."
Many boys will say "it's not manly to play parent" when their little sister asks them to "play house." With a pet, they won't even realize that they are taking on a parent-like role.
12. They learn what it truly means to care about/for something.
As well as how to care for that animal/person properly.
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