It’s a universally acknowledged fact that children love pets. If you’re a parent, you’re probably used to your kids pleading with you to adopt a dog, buy them a hamster or other similar request by now. After all, the bond between a child and their pet is unique and inimitable. Animals are capable of unconditional love and will never judge you – something children often crave.

Research has shown that becoming a pet caretaker can be of great benefit to your kids in several ways. Pets are great for relieving stress and often provide helpful practice for the development of their emotional and social skills. They are invaluable companions who can enhance moods and offer critical social support when your child needs it.

However, given the amount of responsibility caring for a pet requires, it’s only right that parents do their due diligence before giving in. Here are some of the major benefits of having a family pet:

1. Alleviates stress

Growing up is a stressful time filled with academic hurdles, social confusion, and an untold amount of pressure in every other aspect of their life. It’s safe to say that children and teenagers take on a lot in their daily lives. Fortunately, pets are such great stress relievers. They offer uncomplicated companionship in a world that is often difficult to navigate for young people. Taking care of a pet can also be a good distraction and comfort to them.

2. Decreases likelihood of developing allergies

Studies show that kids who grow up around pets are more likely to develop a robust immune system against asthma and allergies. Children with pets often fight off colds and cases of flu better than their peers and, as a result, are healthier and more active individuals.

3. Enhances their sense of empathy

Pets are utterly reliant on their humans to care for them. They generally can’t feed or groom themselves and even need help for recreational activities.

Because of this, children who are pet caretakers are encouraged to care for someone other than themselves early on. They learn to think and feel from someone else’s point of view, which sparks a deep-rooted sense of compassion in them.

They instinctively start to realise when their pet may be uncomfortable or feeling lonely. Having pets will make them want to ensure their pet is safe and happy at all times – a significant first step in their emotional and social development.

4. Allows them to learn easier

Pets are also highly effective academic crutches for kids. Animals have always been used as aids in learning in schools and have proven to be helpful for children who are unable to keep up with the rest of the class. This is especially the case with children who struggle to read. These kids often better themselves at this by practising reading aloud in front of their pets to gain the confidence they need.

Conclusion

While your children lobbying for pets may seem like a frivolous request to you, there are actually plenty of sound reasons why getting one could be a massive help to you and your family. Pets are unconditional friends for your children in uncertain times and provide unparalleled support and aid in their development. Most importantly, they become invaluable members of your family. If you are considering getting a pet, aPetMart is the source of all your online pet supplies in Singapore. With our vast collection of high-quality pet-related essentials, you’ll find everything you’ll ever need with us and more! Contact us today to learn more.