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4 Reasons Pets Are Good For Kids

We are definitely a critter loving household. We currently have two Chihuahuas, a cat, a Ball Python, an aquatic turtle, an African Water Frog, and 5 chickens.

There are many benefits that can come from raising a pet with your children, in this post I share a few of them.
#thebarefootmom


Teach Responsibility:

One of the most important things we have to teach our children is responsibility. Helping feed and water and care for a pet is a wonderful way to help kids develop responsibility. 

It's also a great way to introduce basic care giving skills. People who have raised pets tend to have an easier transition into parenthood because they've already been the provider and care giver for another life.

Emotional Well-being:

Having and caring for a pet can have a profound affect on emotional health. Interacting with animals has been shown to reduce stress levels and can even help with impulse control, social skills, and self esteem. 

Our older Chihuahua used to work as a therapy dog at a local hospital because it was theraputic and helped calm patients. 

Physical Health

Pets can also have a positive impact on physical health. Families who have dogs have a lower occurrence of asthma and eczema (source).

Pets like dogs need lots of outside play and exercise, it can be a good way to motivate your kids to go outside and get moving.  One of my daughter's daily chores is to take the dog for a walk. 

Family Bonding

Sharing the love and responsibility of caring for a pet can bring families together and strengthen sibling bonds. 

My Top Pick Pets For Families:

-Dogs especially family friendly breeds like Labradors and Boxers. If you want a smaller breed, we really love our Chihuahuas and many of the terriers also make wonderful family pets.

-Ball Pythons or California King Snakes both make awesome pets. They are friendly and enjoy being handled. They are also pretty simple to care for.

-Guinea Pigs make great pets, especially if you want something small and aren't into reptiles. They are friendly and enjoy being held and pet.

Does your family have any pets?

If you enjoyed this post, check out:

-Why We Don't Do Bedtimes 

 -5 Reasons To Let Your Kids Go Barefoot

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Comments

  1. Rhea MendezonaAugust 10, 2018 at 9:30 AM

    Now to have my husband read this article. Haha. My 2.5 year old loves dogs or animals in general but my hubby doesn't want the extra responsibility.

    ReplyDelete
  2. UnknownAugust 10, 2018 at 9:38 AM

    I totally agree that pets are great for kids. Interesting choices on the pets! Thanks for sharing.

    ReplyDelete
  3. UnknownAugust 10, 2018 at 10:33 AM

    I was having this conversation with my husband the other day! He never had a pet as a kid and doesn’t understand the live they can give!

    ReplyDelete
  4. UnknownAugust 12, 2018 at 1:45 PM

    Pets have so many benefits! Just wish my hubby agreed 😉

    ReplyDelete
  5. Insight Pet SolutionsMarch 7, 2023 at 8:16 PM

    I completely agree that pets are good for kids . And also teaching your kid to take care of your pet is also very good. Pet brings love in the family . Thank you for sharing your thoughts through this blogpost

    ReplyDelete

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