Here are a few facts about the impact of pets on kids’ lives!
- In one study, researchers found that kids who had a dog during their first year of life had 31 percent fewer respiratory tract infections than kids who didn’t live with a dog
- It is estimated that 4 in 10 children begin life with a domestic animal in the family, and as many as 90 percent of kids live with a pet at some point in their childhood
- The presence of a dog in the family has the potential to increase physical activity in children
- Studies have shown that dogs can help calm hyperactive or overly aggressive children
- Dogs can help children with disabilities learn to communicate, regulate stress, and overcome the hurdles associated with their disorder
- Playing and exercising with a dog can help a child with learning disorders stay alert and attentive throughout the day
- Both genders can be equally responsible for the care of a pet; it isn’t seen as a “girl thing” therefore all children can learn good nurturing and caregiving habits
- Having the whole family get involved with the different tasks in caring for a dog can strengthen their bond
