- Trust. A pet offers unconditional support when a child (or anyone) is sad, angry or upset. They can teach your child to trust the pet, themselves and build trust in other relationships as well.
- Compassion. When a child takes care of a pet, they learn to be kind to others through taking care of their furry friend’s basic needs.
- Bereavement. When a pet passes away, a child will learn about the grieving process.
- Respect. Requiring gentle touching and learning about boundaries when the pet is eating and sleeping will develop respect for others in young children, which is a difficult skill to learn at a young age.
- Self-esteem. When pets show unconditional love, it boosts a child’s self-esteem. Being responsible also develops self-esteem in young children.
- Loyalty. Pets are very loyal and a good example of how to treat others that are important to the child and family.
- Physical activity. Walking and throwing a ball is great exercise.
- Patience. Sometimes bonding with a pet takes time, as well as teaching tricks and learning good behavior.
- Social Skills. Pets are great in helping “break the ice.” On outings, dogs encourage conversations with others and will improve a child’s social skills.
- Motivation. Because of all the skills pet ownership provides, young children have a reduced risk of allergies and better grades at school because kids develop internal motivation while caring for their animals.
- Empathy. Children growing up with a pet do so with more empathy towards animals and more empathy in general.
