While the saying used to be that “dogs are a man’s best friend,” a more accurate version would state that “pets are a family’s best friend.” After all, women and children and, yes, even cat lovers all deserve to be included!

Pets are great companions and they can also improve your health. Researchers from the Rand Corporation found that children living with pets in their home have better overall health, have more consistently good moods, are more physically active and have fewer learning problems.

Contrary to health worries, exposure to germs that come from animals can actually help children develop a stronger immune system compared with their pet-less friends.

According to a study done by the American Academy of Pediatrics, children who had contact with cats and dogs at a young age generally have fewer respiratory problems and require less antibiotics for infections.

Pets are also a social catalyst for children who have difficulties making connections with their peers. If a friend comes over for a playdate, the children can form a common interest as they play with the animal, which takes the pressure off the children to provide all the entertainment.

“Pet ownership appears to be a significant factor for facilitating social interaction and friendship formation between neighborhoods,” reports Lisa Wood, associate professor at the University of Western Australia. 

While friends and family provide plenty of social interactions for children, pets provide genuine companionship in their own unique way.

“Children with low self-esteem may talk to, or confide in, an animal in ways that they would not with people,” reports the Pet Health Council. “They are often more confident in performing tasks they find difficult with an animal simply because the animal does not care if mistakes are made, nor will the child be afraid of looking silly in front of the animal.” 

As a pet becomes part of a family, it can also bring family members closer as they play with the animal, go for walks, and share responsibilities together.

Additionally, playing with animals and talking pets for walks on a regular basis is a great way to get consistent exercise.

Even though there are several benefits (and perhaps your child loves pointing out puppies or kittens), every family is different and the decision to get a pet requires serious discussion, research and careful consideration.

When you bring a pet into your home, it becomes part of your family. You have an obligation to make sure you have the time and resources to give the animal the proper care it needs.

If you do not currently have a pet, start with something small to get an idea of whether having a pet is something the family can handle long-term. For example, if your child is begging for a dog, start by getting a fish.

If the child can properly care for the fish and does not tire of the responsibilities, move on to something that requires more maintenance, such as a hamster, rabbit or snake. If interest in the animal fades shortly, now might not be the best time for a higher-maintenance pet.

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