Growing Up with a Pet

Many studies now confirm that a child’s co-existence with a pet is beneficial both for their physical health and psychological well-being. Children who live with pets from their first year of life appear to have a lower incidence of allergies and bronchial asthma later in childhood. Gradual exposure to allergens, such as dog fur, acts as a protective shield. Studies have also shown that children who grow up with pets tend to experience fewer infections overall.

Having a pet makes children more responsible and mature, as they need to help care for its basic needs. In doing so, children learn to respect another living being’s requirements. They develop socially, become better at recognizing their own emotions and often become more active since they spend many hours playing with their pet, going for walks in parks, and so on. Children who grow up with a pet often feel more secure, having a faithful “guard” every day and they learn to be more generous and giving.

As for the right age to get a pet, there isn’t really a perfect one. It is often recommended that the child should be older than 3–4 years so that he/she has achieved a certain level of independence and be able to meet some of the animal’s needs by themselves. The most crucial factor is the level of responsibility a child has developed to take on part of the pet’s care. Also, the child should be able to care for the pet without putting themselves at risk, follow basic hygiene rules, and avoid putting their hands in their mouth while handling the animal. Some animals, like turtles, frogs, chicks and ducklings, can carry infectious diseases such as salmonella.

The arrival of a newborn is not a reason to remove the family pet from the home. It is essential, however, to take some protective measures, such as proper handwashing, ensuring the pet’s vaccinations and regular veterinary check-ups are up to date, and, of course, close supervision by the parents.

Katerina Katsibardi, MD, PhD
Paediatrician, Doctor of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
www.katsibardi.gr

Note: Regular paediatric check-ups are recommended. This article provides general information and under all circumstances, you should consult your paediatrician.