Why You Should Consider Getting a Family Pet

Introduction

• Date: 4/15/2024
• Duration: 9 min read
• Source: Children's Hospital Colorado

Main Speaker: Sarah Scott, MS, CCLS, Child Life Specialist

• Works with a special dog named Galaxy at Children's Colorado to aid children in the hospital.
  • Sees the positive impact of the human-animal connection on children firsthand.

Benefits of Growing Up with a Pet

Responsibility

• Pets teach children responsibility through daily care activities such as feeding and exercise.
• Children learn cause and effect: feeding pets helps them thrive similar to how parents feed children to keep them healthy.
• It is important to explain and discuss the reasons behind pet care tasks.

Companionship

• Pets provide nonjudgmental companionship, crucial for children experiencing loneliness or social challenges.
• The unconditional love from pets offers a sense of belonging and friendship without expectations.

Emotional Development

• Helps in nurturing empathy and compassion by teaching kids to understand nonverbal cues from pets.
• Aids in emotional regulation through activities like petting, which can reduce stress and anxiety.
• Encourages outdoor activities, promoting mental health benefits like increased self-esteem and reduced anxiety/depression.

Understanding Loss and Grief

• Pets provide an early lesson in dealing with loss and grief, which is a part of life.
• Important to be honest with children about pet loss using age-appropriate language.
• Encourages discussions on how to remember or honor pets, helping children to process grief healthily.

Considerations Before Getting a Pet

Timing

• The decision to get a pet varies among families based on factors like children's ages and the family's capacity for care.
• Considerations include the cost of care and the adults' capacity to take responsibility.

Type of Pet

• Match the pet with the family’s lifestyle and capacity for care.
• Consider allergies; exposure to animals early is advisable.
• Assistance from rescue organizations can help in selecting the right pet based on breed temperament and family needs.

Pet Safety

• Teach children how to safely approach and interact with animals.
• Practice hygiene and avoid contact with certain animals for children under 5 due to health concerns.

Preparation for a New Pet

• Ensure your living space is equipped with necessary supplies like food, bowls, and toys.
• Integrate pet care into your routine, including training needs.

Conclusion

• Adding a pet to the family offers immense benefits in terms of emotional, social, and developmental growth for children.
• Important to assess family readiness and capacity to ensure a pet is a positive addition.

Related Topics

• Families, Home, Mental Health, Babies, Toddlers, Kids, Pre-Teens & Teens

For more insights, visit the Children’s Hospital Colorado website.