LA Vet Office

Kids and Pets

Some studies show that children that grow up around pets have a tendency to be more responsible than children who do not grow up with pets. Caring for a family pet teaches children life lessons like responsibility and empathy, and allows children to bond better with other people and animals.

If you have children and have decided to add a pet to your household, realize that your new pet will be like another member of your family. Pets are more like people than you may think – with unique personalities, interests, food preferences, and temperaments. It is not uncommon to own two of the same breed of dog, for example, with two completely different personalities. Many times, this personality can be seen when dogs are just puppies. Some puppies are more aggressive as puppies, while other litter mates may have a shy and quiet nature.

Your children need to understand the appropriate behavior around pets. Allowing your children to help with the responsibilities of a pet is a great way to teach them more about how to behave around animals. This responsibility allows children to better understand that the world is a big place and other creatures need the same amount of attention and caring that they need. Teaching children empathy for pets is a great way to teach them life lessons about the needs of pets and even other people, making them more socially proficient adults.

For more information about your pets, contact the Los Angeles Veterinarian clinic.