Pets Make Better Kids, a message from Ras Al Khaimah Animal Welfare Centre
Today, I would like to share this message from Ras Al Khaimah Animal Welfare Centre (RAKAWC) about "Pets Make Better Kids". From my experience I truly believe in it... If you are considaring adopting a pet please read more...
" October 1, 2013 marks the beginning of Adoption month at Ras Al Khaimah Animal Welfare Centre (RAKAWC). While adopting a pet can offer animals a second chance at a better life, research also shows that having a pet can improve your child’s social, emotional and physical development. If you’re a parent, you’ve probably experienced those big pleading eyes looking up and begging “can we take it home?” Whether it’s a puppy, kitten or hamster, kids just want a friend to play with. Smart parents know that getting a pet is a lifelong commitment to the animal and requires patience, effort and time. It’s a decision that takes a great deal of thought. If you have ever thought of adopting a pet, here are some facts that may encourage you to take the plunge:
♥ Kids with pets get outside more and enjoy all the associated health benefits. They enjoy walks, runs and play, maybe even dog paddling with their furry friend.
♥ The focus of family activities can often be centered on the pet, helping families to grow closer. Sharing the love and care of a family pet also forges an additional common bond among siblings.
♥ At school having a pet gives children something to talk about and a shared interest with other kids.
♥ Children who grow up with pets have less risk of developing allergies and asthma.
♥ Feeding and caring for a pet encourages childhood responsibility and discipline.
♥ Nurturing a pet is a more acceptable way for boys to ‘parent play’ and practice being caregivers.
♥ Emerging readers often feel more comfortable reading aloud to a pet.
♥ A pet offers a special kind of companionship for children. It is a nonjudgmental pal with paws who they can turn to.
♥ Children with pets display improved impulse control, social skills and self-esteem. They are also more likely to interpret non verbal communication and body language correctly.
♥ Caring for a pet fosters empathy in children and adults alike and cuddling a pet reduces stress, loneliness and anxiety.
♥ Pets often also offer children the first lessons of the life cycle: birth, reproduction, illness, accidents and death.
Ellen Quanjer, Centre Manager at RAKAWC: “A pet can never be the sole responsibility of a child. They are not mature enough to take care of the pet alone and to be pack leaders in the case of dogs, but they can certainly help with feeding, grooming, playing and walking.”
“Children should always be made aware of the seriousness of the commitment of adopting an animal. Anyone who takes an animal from us should take it for life, so always do your research and make sure it’s definitely what the whole family wants, not just the kids”.
During adoption month all new adopters at RAKAWC will receive a voucher for one free grooming session as well as an additional 20% discount on our vet subscription package.
The cats and dogs at RAKAWC are all vaccinated, neutered, microchipped and registered. All the animals undergo a behavior assessment and are socialized with people and other dogs or cats. Dogs also undergo a basic obedience course. If you would like to adopt a furry friend or find out more visit www.rakawc.com or contact Jenna on 0504321873 or info@rakawc.com.