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The benefits of pets
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PLUS win tickets to see
My Little Pony: The Movie
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About 80% of Australians have an animal companion at some time, and there are many reasons why a pet is a kid's best friend. From good health to great life skills, here are some positives that come with pet ownership.
What are the benefits of a family pet?
According to The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, having a pet is good for:
- Child development
- Family harmony
- Family health
How do pets help children develop?
Studies have shown that kids with pets have higher self-esteem, improved social skills and are more likely to be physically active and less likely to be overweight.
The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne says that pet ownership helps to develop a child's:
- Nurturing skills
- Sense of responsibility
- Empathy and caring attitude
- Communication skills
What effect do pets have on family harmony?
Research shows that families with a pet spend much more time interacting and that pets are a great source of fun activities and friendly conversation. In other words, 'The family that pets together gets together!'
How can pets improve your family's health?
Whether you're patting a poodle or cuddling a kitty, a pet can provide parents with relaxation and stress-relief. Compared with pet-less people, The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne says that pet owners:
- Have a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease
- Have fewer minor illnesses and complaints
- Visit the doctor less often
A study has also found that children who live with a dog in their first year of life had fewer respiratory tract infections and ear infections than dog-free kids. Cats also had a positive effect on children's health and researchers said that, 'during the first year of life, animal contacts are important, possibly leading to better resistance to infectious respiratory illnesses during childhood.'
What pet should you get?
Depending on your family's circumstances, here are some good pets for kids:
- A dog
- A cat
- A guinea pig
- A budgerigar
- Gold fish or Siamese fighting fish
- Sea monkeys or aqua dragons
And failing that, how about a pet rock or a pet plant?
Win tickets to see My Little Pony: The Movie
My Little Pony: The Movie
in cinemas November 2 and little animal lovers will be champing at the bit to see it!
Created for a whole new generation of My Little Pony fans, this animated adventure takes the Mane 6 – Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rarity – beyond Equestria in a bid to save Ponyville from a dark force.
Featuring the voices and songs of Emily Blunt, Sia, Zoe Saldana and other stars, this film is all about the magic of friendship.
And thanks to Madman Entertainment, we're giving away 20 double passes to see the film, plus some brilliant activity flyers.
To enter, email competition@careforkids.com.au and tell us in 25 words or less why your little poppet would love to see My Little Pony: The Movie. They can enjoy the trailer here.
Competition starts October 11, 2017 and ends October 15, 2017. |
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