Pets and children: a friend for life!

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Published on 10 January 2025
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The arrival of a pet in a family is an adventure that often changes the family dynamic, but our furballs can have particularly beneficial effects for children.

Giving youngsters a four-legged companion is not just a source of happiness: this unique relationship contributes to their personal development, their self-fulfilment, and even their physical and emotional health. Let’s find out why the friendship between a child and their pet is so precious!

  1. Responsibility and a sense of duty

Taking care of an animal helps children develop a sense of responsibility. Whether it’s feeding, brushing or walking the animal, these daily gestures encourage them to respect commitments, develop routine habits, and understand the importance of caring for living beings. This progressive responsibility helps them to become more autonomous and aware of their actions.

  1. Invaluable emotional support

A pet is often a trusted companion for children, someone they can confide in without fear of judgment. The mere presence of an animal reduces stress and anxiety, and cuddling with a dog or cat promotes the release of oxytocin, the happiness hormone. Children often find constant emotional comfort in their companions, which can be particularly helpful during periods of change or difficulty.

  1. Developing social skills

Having a pet can also enhance children’s social skills. By interacting with their pet, children learn to interpret non-verbal signals, such as tail movements or facial expressions. This particular form of communication teaches them empathy and helps them understand the emotions of others. In fact, children who grow up with a pet often show more compassion and care for others.

Read also: Teaching children to interact well with animals

  1. Stimulating physical activity

Dogs, in particular, encourage regular physical activity. Walks, play sessions and even runs in the garden or park help children stay active and develop their motor skills. This relationship between a pet and physical activity is beneficial to their health, promoting a healthier lifestyle from an early age.

  1. Creating memories and lasting bonds

Moments spent with a pet become precious memories that last a lifetime. These shared moments foster the creation of strong emotional bonds, helping children to build their self-confidence and sense of security. The genuine friendship of a pet is often one of a child’s first emotional bonds, helping them to learn about unconditional love.

How do you choose the right pet for your family?

It’s essential to choose a pet in keeping with your family environment and the animal’s character. Some dogs, for example, are more patient and tolerant of children, while some cats prefer a calm environment without too much commotion. It’s also crucial to prepare children to understand and respect the needs and limits of their future companion.

In short, adopting a pet can enrich your children’s lives in many ways, from emotional development to encouraging healthy habits. Whether it’s a dog, cat or even a small rodent, every animal has the potential to bring love, learning and joy to your little ones’ lives. Not only are you giving an animal a home, you’re also adding a precious member to your family!

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