You may have heard the notion that pets can trigger health problems in children. This of course makes you feel worried. However, did you know that raising animals also has a positive impact on your little one? Come on, see the facts in the following article.
A study proves that having pets, such as cats and dogs, is good for the health and development of children. The positive effects obtained by children can include physical and mental health, support growth and development, increase intelligence, and train social interactions.
However, having children who have to live with pets does require special supervision. Parents also need to understand how to keep animals safely in order to have a positive effect on the health and development of children.
Some of the Benefits of Having Pets for Children
In addition to some of the positive impacts mentioned above, there are several other benefits of having a pet for children, including:
1. Reducing the risk of allergies in children
Various studies show that children raised in a home with pets have a lower risk of developing allergies and asthma. Experts also argue that the presence of pets can build a child's immune system due to early exposure to certain germs.
In addition, children who grow up with cats and dogs in the home, tend to be more resistant to pet dander allergies than those who don't have pets at all. However, further research is still needed to support this.
2. Cultivate empathy and a sense of responsibility
Love, care, and responsibility cannot just appear in children. These good values need to be honed by setting an example for children. Well, having a pet is one way to teach children about empathy and responsibility.
By watching parents take care of pets at home, children will learn how to love animals, feed animals, bathe them, and even invite them to play.
In addition, learning to care for animals and treat them well, can also form a child's personality that is more patient and full of empathy for others.
3. Helping children learn and be more confident
According to experts, having a pet such as a dog or cat can improve a child's learning ability. Psychologically, children who have pets tend to be more obedient, less fussy, and can learn better.
4. Helping the development of children with special needs
It is also known that children with ADHD benefit more from having a pet. Pets can also help improve the socialization and play skills of children with autism.
5. Reducing stress in children
Who doesn't love cute and funny pets? Playing with pets can certainly make us feel happy and calmer. This effect is also good for reducing stress, including stress in children.
Several studies have shown that children who play and care for pets more often have lower stress levels than children who rarely play with animals.
Not only that, children who have pets will also move more often, for example when playing with cats or taking dogs for walks. This makes children exercise more and become more active.
A Guide to Owning a Pet for Those of You Who Have Children
Before deciding to have a pet, you should think carefully about the benefits and risks. The following are some things parents need to consider before deciding to have a pet:
Health condition
If you and your partner or one of them have allergies to animals, it's best not to keep pets in the house in the first place. Likewise if after the child is born or if the child has an allergic reaction to pets.
Children's safety and comfort
Generally, pets that are used to being around people don't intentionally hurt children. On the other hand, children can also be trained to interact with pets from an early age, especially if the animals are friendly and friendly.
However, make sure you always supervise and be around your child when he or she plays with pets.
Pet and home hygiene
The cleanliness of pets and the surrounding environment must always be maintained properly, because there is a possibility that pets can transmit bacteria, parasites, and viruses to the Little One.
In addition to these things, the following is a guide to owning a pet for parents who have children:
- Place the pet in a different room from the baby. Do not allow babies to lie in the same room as pets unsupervised.
- Do not let pets lick the baby's face, because there is a risk of transmitting the infection to the baby's eyes or mouth. Wait until the baby is older to play directly with the pet.
- Avoid the habit of children hugging pets, because there is a possibility that he will wallow in the garbage outside the house, sniff or lick other animals, and catch fleas from other animals.
- Teach children not to hurt animals, such as hitting, taunting, and pulling their tail or ears. Also teach not to disturb animals that are sick, sleeping, or eating.
- Choose a pet that is still small because it will be safer for children. Some animals are safe enough for children to keep, such as cats, dogs and ornamental fish.
It is important to always supervise children when they are in the same room with pets. In addition, also pay attention to the health conditions of pets in the house.
If necessary, consult a doctor to make sure your child does not experience health problems if you live with a pet.
