Research shows that animals help calm us, leading to better mental well-being. Eighty-five percent of pet owners report improved overall mental health after getting a pet.* Petting animals for even five minutes can increase dopamine levels, providing a sense of pleasure and well-being.
Anita Reynoso, LCSW, RPT, CASI, ADHD-CCSP, is a School-based Therapist for North Range Behavioral Health who offers animal-assisted therapy at elementary schools. Ziggy, her five-year-old golden doodle, helps reduce stress and anxiety in the students through his calm, empathetic nature. For this month’s blog, Anita shared insights on how animals enhance our mental health and the special effects of raising a pet on children.
When children care for animals, they develop essential life skills. Pets often make children feel safe, loved, and protected, which can boost self-esteem and lead to more restful sleep, both critical for mental health. The structure and routine required to care for pets help children feel more secure. Pets also decrease loneliness and provide companionship, especially in homes where caregivers are very busy or absent.
Children learn empathy and emotional intelligence when a pet gets hurt or sick. They witness the animal's emotions and learn how to care for them in various emotional states, understanding that others may have different perspectives. For example, many dogs fear fireworks' loud noises. A good pet owner might take their dog far from the fireworks, bring them to a quiet basement, or turn up the TV to mask the noise. This teaches children compassion and empathy, as they take precautions to comfort their pet. This responsibility of pet care helps prepare them for future responsibilities in life.
Animals offer unconditional love and acceptance, which children desperately need. This unconditional love assures them that their pet is always by their side no matter their mistakes. Pets are also great confidantes, allowing children to express their emotions and feelings safely and comfortably.
Recognizing an animal's feelings and boundaries helps children recognize these in others and themselves. They learn not to tolerate things they dislike and understand how an animal responds to kindness or unkindness, lessons that often transfer to human relationships.
Dog ownership encourages children to spend more time outside, leading to more green time and less screen time. This outdoor activity provides much-needed vitamin D, which is known to decrease depression.
Animals help children better understand the world around them by learning to pay attention to external factors to keep their pets safe and healthy. Creative problem-solving can also come into play, such as figuring out how to exercise their dog when it's too cold to go for a walk.
The skills learned from pet ownership translate to many other areas of life, fostering compassion and responsible behavior in children and helping them become more empathetic human beings. Managing the day-to-day tasks of pet care, such as feeding, grooming, and exercising, teaches children the importance of routine and commitment. Additionally, the bond formed with a pet can improve emotional intelligence and social skills, as children learn to communicate and build trust with their animal companions. This foundation not only benefits their personal growth but also positively influences their interactions with others.
