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The important years -

Childhood and adolescence are formative years in a person's life. They set the stage for future health and well-being.

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The benefits - A review of 22 studies revealed that there is evidence that animal companionship has a range of benefits for a child's development and future.

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Exercise -

Physical inactivity is a growing concern in child healthcare. Younger generations are living increasingly sedentary lives thanks to the draw of indoor technology-based activities.

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Exercise - Regular exercise is essential for a child's physical development. It affects bone health, weight, and cardiovascular fitness.

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Exercise -

In addition to the physical benefits, it also enhances motor skills and contributes to cognitive, emotional, and social development.

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Exercise -

What better way to get the kids moving than by taking the family dog for a walk?

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Exercise - Taking care of a dog is naturally a big responsibility, and as such it gives parents and kids the necessary motivation to get up and do physical activities with the dog every day.

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Exercise -

Getting children involved in a routine of walking and playing with the dog sets them up with a better chance of continuing a healthy routine of physical activity in the future, as well as providing immediate benefits.

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From goldfish to golden retrievers -

If having a dog isn't feasible for you, don't worry! Children benefit from interactions with all kinds of pets.

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Furry friendships -

Research shows that childhood pets can have significant benefits for a child's emotional and social development.

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Furry friendships -

One study found that children with pets were 23% less likely to struggle with social interactions and emotions.

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Furry friendships -

The sweetest results showed that kids who played with their pets three times per week were 74% more likely to engage in prosocial behaviors, such as sharing and helping.

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Furry friendships -

Pets are said to be particularly beneficial for shy children or for an only child. A loving companion like a cat or dog can help them develop their social skills.

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Therapy -

Children who suffer from PTSD as a result of abuse often benefit from animal therapy.

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Therapy -

Even after suffering mental and physical wounds at the hands of adults, children can sense that they can trust animals. The unconditional love and lack of judgement or deceit is incredibly healing.

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Love -

This love is a gift to any child, but can especially help those who might be suffering from some kind of emotional stress, or struggling with a sibling rivalry. 

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Love - Pets can become a companion and a playmate, listening to all the woes of the world in total confidence (and giving joy).

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Dealing with emotions -

Children who don't have a safe outlet for their emotions sometimes turn to bullying. A pet provides a safe place to pour out your true emotions without fear of judgement.

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Empathy -

Pets also teach children about empathy. They learn that this animal is totally dependent on them: they need to feed them when they're hungry, take them outside when they need to go to the bathroom, and comfort them during a thunderstorm.

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Empathy -

This understanding of the needs of others spills over into human relationships.

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Loyalty -

Dogs and other pets are known for their deeply ingrained loyalty. This is another positive trait that can rub off on young minds.

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Respect -

Pets aren't like teddy bears that can be thrown around. Cats in particular require special treatment!

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Respect -

Pets should be touched gently and children must learn their boundaries. This is a difficult skill for young children and will be a huge benefit when they begin interacting with other kids at school.

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Verbal skills -

Pets have been shown to help children develop their verbal skills from a young age. Infants who are learning to speak often chatter away to their pets!

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Verbal skills - The mere presence of an animal provides stimulus for a child to practice speaking and socializing. This supports the development of cognitive language skills from a young age.

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Self-esteem -

Looking after an animal is a big responsibility. Children get a huge boost in confidence when they are trusted with responsibilities like feeding the goldfish or taking the dog for a walk.

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Immune system - Research shows that children who live in a home with a dog get less ear and respiratory infections, and require less antibiotics.

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Immune system - It's believed that exposure to animals at a young age may stimulate the immune system and prepare them to fight off more allergens and bugs.

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Immune system - Studies suggest the exposure has to happen very early in life to be effective.

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Conclusions - It's hard to deny the benefits of having a pet, even if it's just a goldfish. The lessons a child can learn from their animal companion gives them a great head start in life.

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What next? - Feeling inspired? Check out this list of the top 60 dog breeds that make the best family pets.

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