The benefits of a family pet for your growing children

The question of whether to get a family pet might be weighing on your mind with your growing child, and perhaps you’ve been deciding if it’s the right step for you. Owning a pet is beneficial for both social and health reasons, and the options for potential animals can suit almost any household.

Health benefits

Whether your pet of choice is a cat, a dog, or something more exotic, having a pet can improve the health of your little ones and the rest of the household. Playing with a pet promotes a healthy lifestyle by encouraging activity, especially when it comes to walking a pet dog, though other animals can also make you more active. The health benefits don’t stop with added physical activity: a pet cat might not make you run through the park, but studies have shown that cat ownership can decrease the risk of developing serious heart disease, while dogs could help keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. Getting a pet has also been linked to a reduction in allergy risk for children, but make sure that there are no allergies prior to getting the pet.

Social benefits

The bond between people and animals has existed for thousands of years and might be why they’re so common. A pet can be an important companion to help your child learn life lessons and grow emotionally. A pet is a friend that your child can cuddle when they’re upset, but having an animal has also been linked to a reduction in stress hormones, providing an extra mood boost. In addition to being a good friend, your pet might help your child make more friends as studies show that pet ownership can increase self-esteem and social skills in children. Teaching your kids responsibility is another benefit since they will need to learn about caring for the needs of another living creature, and there are opportunities for any age to lend a hand.

Choosing a pet

Choosing the pet that is right for your family is important when deciding to get an animal. Knowing the size of the adult animal and the space you have is a big consideration – those with small city apartments should avoid that adorable St. Bernard puppy! It is also sensible to factor in the cost of feeding your pet. While you can buy generic pet food cheaply, in the long run you may be better off spending a little more on a good quality feed. It’s worth reading these Natures Feast reviews to see just how much healthier it is for your cat. Other factors include level of activity, as some animals, particularly dog breeds, will need a lot more exercise; maintenance, which can be both time-consuming and costly for some animals such as long-haired dogs and cats; and the lifespan of the animal – where hamsters and other rodents may only live a few years, cats and small dogs are often expected to live closer to 15 years. Veterinary care should also be kept in mind as many animals will need check-ups and vaccinations with a reputable vet such as Bob Martin.

With any family, making the choice to add another member can be a daunting prospect. Adopting a pet is no small decision, but when you keep your options open, pets can be a worthwhile part of your life that offer health and social benefits to you and your children.