Wicker and Wilde firmly believe that all kids should grow up with some sort of furry pet, namely cats and dogs......and while cats are great in their own way, this post is specifically about dogs and how they make fantastic family "pets", AKA furry family members. New studies show that dogs can help with developmental benefits for your human children! By helping to care for a dog, kids feel like they are part of a team. If you have little ones at home, check out all these benefits of having a family dog:
Increased responsibility - Kids help feed, walk, and play with the dog and these daily chores can teach kids responsibility and how to care for another living being.
Dirty Dog!Rebecca Wilde
Offers a sense of identity and independence - Unlike adults, when growing up with a dog, kids will create a unique relationship and bond with the dog.
Unconditional love and loyalty - Dogs will help teach your kids loyalty because there is no more loyal animal than a pup. And no matter what happens to & with your child, the doggo will never be mad at them and will snuggle when your daughter/son needs it the most.
More physical activity - Dogs help all humans get outside more to play. Kids will get more physical activity, plus boost their social and emotional development.
Rebecca Wilde
Builds greater self-esteem - As stated above, there won’t be rejection from a dog. Tails start wagging, and dogs are happy to see children all the time.
Creates sense of empathy - As your pup ages, kids will experience the loss of a dog or even observe them with an illness or injury. It can help them develop empathy and how to deal with grief and tough times.
Rebecca
And, of course, we always encourage you to adopt from a reputable rescue or shelter. We have some great ones around like Richmond Animal Care and Control, Richmond SPCA, The Lucky Paw Foundation, Henrico Animal Shelter and so many more. Just check your area, many of them have Facebook pages. And if you are looking for a particular breed and may want a breeder, don't forget to check for breed-specific rescues and if you do go to a breeder, do your homework; GO SEE the property and meet the breeder, get references, etc.
BoltRebecca Wilde
ScampRebecca Wilde
Rebecca Wilde
TazRebecca Wilde
