Pet Benefits

Benefits of Owning a Pet

Yes, owning a little furry friend teaches children responsibility. But the positive influence may extend much further.

Researchers have known for years that pets improve health in seniors by lowering stress and improving fitness. But the benefit to children is only just being studied. It turns out pets can have a positive impact on emotional and social health, as well as improve cognitive abilities. "There is now enough evidence that learning to care for something helps nurture a child's ability to empathize," says Lynne Jackson, an associate professor of psychology at King's University College at the University of Western Ontario in London. Lynne herself owns dogs, cats and horses.

Socially, pets can provide a safe base for children. When a child learns that a caregiver is consistently there, that person become a safe haven, says Lynne. The same goes for pets. When they are always there for a child, they become another pillar. "That sense of attachment influences a person's sense of lovability," she says. There is also a suggestion that children who have been through trauma can experience healing from a pet's love.

In very young children, pets can provide an opportunity for children to learn how to control their emotional peaks and valleys. "Animals have a constant interplay between excitement and calm. They'll zoom around the house and children have to learn sometimes to moderate their own enthusiasm." Lynne speculates that when children see how their own energy levels are reflected in their animals, it may promote self-control.

Pets are a 24-7 learning tool. From birth, children's cognitive abilities are developing as they learn to reason, categorize and form memories. "Pets have different textures, make different sounds and have unpredictable movements," says Lynne. "There is evidence that even babies are attuned to life and will spend more time gazing at a live animal over a stuffed animal."

British researcher June McNicholas studied a group of school  children and found that those who owned pets actually lost fewer days of school due to illness. The pet owners had higher levels of the antibody immunoglobulin A, which indicates immune system strength.

Pets and The New Baby

 

Congratulations, you are going to have a baby! You have told all of your family and friends, even going so far as to tell the joyful news to your furry, four-legged "kids." As the months progress you notice Kitty, who is perched on your lap, is now closely guarding her position as Rover, appearing needy, moves in to be close to you. You may find yourself wondering if your pets understand what is happening and if they will accept the new baby as a member of the family. Although there is no single thing you can do to guarantee that the transition will be easy for your pets, there are a few things you can do to make the change a little easier on all concerned.

The first thing to do is make an appointment with your veterinarian to make sure Kitty and Rover are in tiptop health and all their vaccinations are up-to-date. While there, be sure to tell him or her that you are expecting, and ask about restrictions on what you can and cannot do with your pets while pregnant. Ask the vet for advice on preparing the pets for a new baby. Most veterinarians will be happy to offer tips that will help both Kitty and Rover adjust to the new arrival.

Remember that Rover and Kitty are members of your family. They have become accustomed to your attention and their lifestyle. The closer you can maintain the same routines for them after the baby is born, the easier the transition will be. This means that whenever possible keep up the daily walks, petting rituals, and evening snuggles. If you know that your routine is going to change after baby is born, it is best to adjust it now with your pets, before baby enters the scene.

You will need to establish some boundaries for Kitty, who may be used to going where she pleases in the house. Blowing up some balloons and placing them in areas where you want to discourage her from going can help. The squeaking and loud popping sounds the balloons make, as well as the occasional balloon clinging to her fur from static electricity, should be enough to convince her to avoid these areas at all costs. Filling the bassinet or crib with balloons and allowing Kitty to jump in will quickly teach her that she does not want to be there.

Washing Rover's blanket in the same laundry soap you plan to wash the baby's bedding and clothing with will help the adjustment beforehand. The most helpful thing for Rover would be to have dad bring home a receiving blanket from the hospital that was used by your baby. This will help Rover adjust to the new scent of baby far more quickly.

Once your new baby arrives at home, it is important to pay special attention to your pets, especially in those first few days when baby comes home. If possible, have Dad pay attention to them while you feed the baby. Then have Dad burp the baby while you take your turn paying attention to Kitty and Rover.

Don't be afraid to allow Kitty and Rover to come over and give baby a "hello sniff," while you have the baby safely cuddled in your arms. It helps them get adjusted to the source of this new scent and become more familiar with the baby's movements. Remember, even the most faithful family pet can be startled by a baby's sudden actions or cries, so it will be important for you to take the time to assure Kitty and Rover that these movements and noises are okay.

By the time your baby is on the move, your pets should be well accustomed to having a new member of the family. It will be important for you to establish boundaries by letting your baby know not to play with Rover's dinner, nor pull Kitty's tail.

With some careful planning, the bonds that will be established between Kitty, Rover, and your baby will be strong, and you will be able to sit back and watch proudly as your entire family plays together.