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Almost inevitably, there comes a time in every family when your child will ask for a pet…hopefully for your sake not a pony.
With more than 24 million pets in Australia, or a household rate of pet ownership at 62 per cent, Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world. But aside from the companionship that 'man's best friend' can bring, there are many other benefits of pet ownership, particularly for children.
Physical benefits
Dogs especially are great motivators for getting out for regular exercise, increasing fitness and improving cardiovascular health. But playing with pets, stroking and patting and brushing can also reduce blood pressure and relieve stress. Children who grow up in homes with pets have less risk of developing common allergies, and research has shown that pet owners tend to get sick less and make fewer visits to the doctor.
Teaching values
Caring for a pet that depends on you for all its needs teaches empathy, nurturing and compassion, whether it needs feeding, or is scared of the storm, a pet needs nourishment, shelter, exercise and love. This is particularly good for boys who might not play 'girl' games like dolls or house, to learn to nurture another. Pets also teach the importance of being kind and gentle.
Building confidence
Children gain confidence and responsibility from caring for a pet. And the simple, yet important, task of filling a bowl with food or water is something that even younger kids can do.
Boost self-esteem
With a little friend who loves them unconditionally, and someone to always talk to, kids with a family pet tend to have higher self-esteem. They are more confident performing tasks with a pet by their side who never judges.
Improve social skills
Younger children who are just learning to talk will chatter away to a pet, practicing verbal skills and socialising. Pets also give a child something to talk about, providing a shared interest with other kids.
Support early reading
Studies have found that reading aloud to a pet, such as a dog, can help develop reading skills. Often, emergent readers feel more comfortable reading out loud to a non-judgemental companion, turning a reluctant reader into a confident one. This is so successful that 'Reading Dogs' are even being introduced to classrooms to support children who need extra help with their reading.
Pets give unconditional love
Non-judgemental and always loyal, a pet can become a child's best buddy, and listen to a child's problems without consequence. A child can safely pour out their fears and anger, without worry of repercussion. Providing immediate comfort, dogs are even used as therapy dogs to support children who experience PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) because children can sense the dog's love and affection is unconditional.
Build family bonds
Pet ownership can help families grow stronger and closer. Children regard a pet as an equal member of the family, so that pet can quickly become the focus of family activities – whether playing chase with a cat, or taking the dog to the park. In an era of overscheduled children, this family time can be a wonderful antidote to modern living.
Best pets for different ages
Despite all the benefits, getting a pet is a big responsibility and there are a few things that need to be seriously considered before taking the plunge. Even though the pet might belong to the child, the day-to-day care of veterinary trips, cleaning and feeding still often falls to the parent. If you are unsure of whether your child is ready for the commitment of a pet, why not try and pet-sit for a friend for the weekend? You can also visit the local RSPCA to ask for advice, and guidance on the responsibilities of pet ownership.
Things to consider include: the pet's expected lifespan, how much care will they need, and will this pet fit in with the current family environment and commitments.
Children under 3: Goldfish are a great introduction to pets for very young children. Being too young to understand the needs and care required in handling a pet, any contact with other household pets at this age should always be supervised. They are however old enough to fill water and food bowls for dogs and cats.
Age 3-8: Small pets such as guinea pigs which are caged for most of the time, can make wonderful first pets for young children. They are social and love handling, but can be put safely away afterwards and the care and maintenance is minimal.
Age 9-12: Ready for responsibility, this age is a good opportunity to introduce a puppy or a kitten to the family. Adult dogs and cats from shelters can also make wonderful pets at this age, but make sure they have been assessed for temperament by the animal shelter to ensure they are the right fit for your family.
Teenagers: At this age they might be looking for a more individual pet, so now could be the time for them to bond with something of their own, such as a lizard or other reptile, or a bird. These animals can take more care so make sure they are ready for the responsibility.
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