6 reasons your toddler should own a pet

Should young children have pets? According to various studies, yes. Here are six reasons why your child should grow up with a pet.

Huge factor in a child’s emotional development

Children who grow up with pets are said to have better social skills and higher self-esteem than those who don’t. These children are also more popular amongst their fellow peers.

Pets not only teach a child nurturing skills, but they also help with the development of non-verbal communication. Overall, children who have pets at home, show a more caring attitude to their environment and those around them.

Responsibility

Pets depend on us for food, attention and exercise. Children who have pets develop a sense of responsibility early on in life as they fulfill their pet’s needs on a daily basis.

Stronger immune system

Multiple studies indicate that children with pets are less prone to allergies and asthma. Being exposed to pets and associated allergens before the age of one boosts a child’s immune system.

Exercise

Having a dog encourages your little one to get physical. Dogs love to play, especially outside which will encourage your little one to venture outdoors instead of sitting in front of the television or tablet. Keeping up with a dog’s play time, will allow your child to stay fit.

Commitment

Having a pet is a full time job. A dog, cat, or even a fish is not something that can be put away when a child gets tired of looking after it. Pets need to be loved and taken care of everyday. Having a pet teaches a child about commitment and how to follow through with responsibility.

Discipline

It’s been scientifically proven that having a dog helps children learn about discipline. By teaching a dog how to listen, children in turn learn the value of listening.

As a result of caring for another being and committing to the responsibility of raising a pet, children learn many life skills. Plus, they get to share their childhood with a best friend who they will cherish into adulthood.

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Lara Bestbier

Writer. Creative. Word-nerd. Aspiring photographer. Old wife. Brand new member of the elite society called mommy-hood. Mom to the only drama queen more demanding than me. “Life’s too short to keep a straight face”.

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