How pets benefit children

AS children we can recall having spent days, weeks, some of us even years trying to persuade our parents to get a dog like the one our cousin had, the goldfish we saw in the pet store, or a ginger-coloured cat like the one that frequented our fence, mostly because of the general happiness or the idea of having a 24-hour playmate. And fortunately for children, clinical psychologist Dr Pearnel Bell said that the benefits of having pets extend beyond these borders of cuddly buddies and frisbee playmates.

“Pets can have social, psychological and therapeutic benefits for children. There are valuable lessons that children will learn while interacting with pets, and so it is one of those things that we recommend for the child, once adequate attention is given to the animal, considering their age and medical issues,” Dr Bell explained.

Below, Dr Bell shares some benefits of being a pet-loving child:

1. Having a pet can teach a child responsibility

“Responsibility in the care of the pet helps the child develop social interest and helps a child develop good interpersonal relationships,” Dr Bell said. She pointed out that children will learn to stay committed to a task, they will understand that they have daily obligations that must be met, for example, cleaning, feeding and bathing their pet. Importantly, this new attitude will spill over into other aspects of their life.

2. They become empathetic

Children often feel as though the world revolves them and they do not care for the needs of others or how their actions make them feel. However, Dr Bell suggests that children who interact with pets will become more gentle, they will want to care for their pet when it is sick, they will want to understand more about the animal so that they can offer them the best care, and in doing this they will develop characteristics such as patience, tolerance, learning to understand the needs of others, their shortcomings, as well as valuing their talents and gifts.

3. Psychological/therapeutic benefits

“Having a pet can be psychologically beneficial. Practices such as stroking a pet can relieve anxiety and help the child to be calm,” Dr Bell said. She said that the therapeutic benefits have been many in children with autism as well. She noted that children with other conditions which often see them experiencing mood swings also stand to benefit greatly from having a pet. When there is tension from life events such as separation, exams, and other fears, pets can also be very helpful.

4. Self-esteem booster

Many children take pride in caring for their pets, and as such do everything to ensure their safety and optimal care. When those around them recognise this, they can give encouragement that will boost the child’s self-esteem. When parents highlight how well they have done at caring for their pets, this is an added bonus for children who will begin to believe in themselves and their ability to complete tasks.

5. Increases opportunities for physical activity

At a time when so many children are caught up in computers and video games, having pets that encourage outdoor activities such as walking or playing in the backyard can be very beneficial. Children need to exercise in order to improve motor skills as well as reduce the climbing rates of obesity among children.

6. Express emotions/deal with grief

Importantly, Dr Bell cautioned parents that a downside to children having pets is the possibility of death which could have severe emotional and psychological effects on the children.

“The child will form a bond, teaching fellow feeling and care of animals. The child could also form a bond that could create psychological problems associated with the loss if a pet dies. It could also teach them if that happens how to cope with loss, helping the child to develop into a well-balanced adult. It could teach him/her how to deal with grief and loss, although it could be a devastating time for the family,” Dr Bell warned.