Give Your Child Better Mental Health, Adopt A Pet
It’s no secret that being a kid is hard. Probably even more so now in the current situation of the world. But there are things parents can do to help their child have better mental health. Including less screen time, more exercise and better diet. For me, it was having a dog.
How Pets Contribute To Better Mental Health
Her name was Russia. Always at our side, showering us in unconditional love. Russia was the best babysitter. She was always playing with my cousins and I. Always around, protecting us. And for me personally, she was everything. I will always remember her, even though I was only eight years old when she was in my life. Russia was a Doberman Pincher. She was my first love.
Russia was the best dog and when she died, I was devastated. To this day, even as I type this I still feel the loss. I feel the pain of my first real heartbreak. I love dogs so much that I can’t see them get hurt, even if its fake, like in the movies. In fact, I won’t watch a movie if the dog dies. Marley and Me? Nope. I will never watch that movie. I can’t.
Related: How To Pick TV Shows Your Dogs Actually Want To Watch
I love dogs more than people in so many cases. And I’m not alone.
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Dogs are known to bring happiness and joy to their owners. I mean who doesn’t love the feeling of someone being overly excited to see you come home after a long day at the office? My insignificant other never was. The unconditional love pets give is unmeasured. Besides love, cuddles and slobber-filled kisses, pets also bring powerful health benefits. According to helpguide.org, pet owners in general, are less likely to suffer from depression, high cholesterol and they may even have higher dopamine levels than those without pets.
Give Your Child Better Mental Health By Adopting A Pet
But as wonderful dogs are for adults, they are amazing for kids. Studies have shown that they bring better mental health to a child by helping with development, emotionally and socially. In fact, according to newsinhealth.nih.gov , one study showed how children with ADHD who read to therapy dogs showed better social skills. They shared more, were more cooperative and they had fewer behavioral problems. Just merely being in the presence of dogs, can help reduce anxiety and depression in kids according to nationwidechildrens.org
I feel lucky that I grew up with dogs because they are a gift to the world. And one of the greatest gifts you can give your children.
Adopt. Dont Shop.
For more Mental Health Awareness Month resources, tips and stories, click HERE.