By Melissa Grant
Pets are cute, often cuddly and make great companions.
Nearly two-thirds of Australian households have one or more pets, so it’s no secret they can be a fabulous addition to the family.
However, you may be surprised at some of the profound ways a pet can improve a child’s life.
Studies have shown children with pets have higher self-esteem, better immune systems and are even more popular.
Provided you follow a few simple rules, a pet can be one of the best friends your child will ever have.
RSPCA veterinarian Dr Bronwyn Orr says research shows that pet ownership can deliver a raft of benefits.
People with animals, she says, tend to have better cardiovascular health, increased social connectedness and less depression.
“For kids, research has shown they have higher self-esteem,” she said.
“There’s a research report saying kids who have a good bond with their pets tend to have good bonds with parents and friends.”
Animals are also good for a child’s immune system.
“Kids growing up with a dog or cat, or any other pet really, they have a stronger immune systems and it seems to reduce the risk of allergy,” Dr Orr said.
“There is research that shows kids who grew up on farms have less sick days than kids who grew up in the city.”
Are you thinking about getting a pet?
Getting a pet should never be an impulse decision. Much thought and consideration must be given as to whether you will be able to adequately care for the animal, whether it’s a dog, cat, bird, fish or reptile.
“When you are thinking about getting a pet you can never do too much prep or planning,” Dr Orr said.
“If you get a puppy or kitten they are just like a child they require a lot of training.”
If you’re getting a pet specifically for your child, you need to remember that ultimate responsibility for the animal’s welfare rests with you.
“The number one thing to keep in mind is: can you be responsible for it? Even if your kid promises to walk it everyday you have to be prepared to be the back-up guy, essentially,” Dr Orr said.
“Sometimes unfortunately parents expect their eight-year-old child to look after the pet.”
And it’s never a good idea to leave children alone with a pet, regardless of the circumstances.
Dr Orr said children do things adults would never do to an animal, such as pull their tail or take away food.
“Children have very unpredictable behaviour and that can be distressing for a dog or cat,” she said.
