Cross Breeds

How do animals influence children? Do they affect their development or behaviour?

I'm researching the connection between children and animals & I'd be grateful for your comments: Do you have children (how old?) Do you have animals (how many?) Did you get the animals for your children? If yes, what was the reason? Do you think children in general benefit from being in regular contact with animals? If yes, in your opinion, how have your children benefited from being around animals? Thank you for your time and effort. It is much appreciated.

Public Comments

1. my brother is 13 we bought a pup 2yrs ago (obv not a pup anymore) - only pet we have my parents bought it for me specifially as i have always loved dogs (i was 19 at the time, so old enough to look after it) i have noticed that my brother (and me of course) has definitly benefited from having him around it has taught him alot of responsibilty, ie feeding him, looking after him when hes ill. i feel that it teaches children to not be so selfish (ie give up a favourite tv program to go walk the dog) and teaches them to be alot more caring. hope that helps xx
2. if baby is exposed to a cat, and the cat licks the babies hand ,they can go two ways. 1: the parent picks them up and says " o my poor baby and goes to the sink and washes there hand with soap. 2: get used to animals and not become weak and get tough
3. it can help children with no siblings to become socialised, which in turn will help them to achieve stable attachtments and relationships with parents and friends.
4. I firmly believe that children who are taught to love and respect animals from a young age are gentler, more compassionate than children who haven't had contact with animals. There is much evidence to support the connection of young people that hurt animals to grow up into adults that eventually end up hurting people. Bringing a child up with a pet, say a dog or cat or rabbit etc; if done properly can teach a child responsibility & great affection, also it shows the child the kind of unconditional love that an animal can bring. Yes I have a child, a dog, 6 rabbits, a turtle, birds and fish. The animals are mine and my daughters.