Many small kids ask their parents for a dog for their birthday or for Christmas. What you think of first is the pee and the poop, and having to deal with taking the animal outdoors on a regular basis to pee.
The thought of all the work you would have to do can be a real turnoff, right? Before you dismiss the idea entirely, however, you may want to consider all the benefits that it could provide.
You might be surprised and possibly convinced to change your mind after taking a look at all of the potential benefits for everyone in your home when a pet joins the household.
Working Towards a Common Goal
Having an animal to love and raise as a team gives you a common purpose. It’s up to everyone to make sure the dog is properly trained, is fed and given water, walked, and certainly not least, loved and cuddled.
When the whole family loves their dog, it adds a special spark to the dynamic. All of you enjoy this creature so much and care about its upbringing, and that gives you a common goal.
The Family Becomes Bigger
Bringing a new furry companion into the home isn’t just about getting a pet. A new dog can become a member of the family and appreciated just as much as a child. Expanding your family and creating memories that include your animal is an incredibly special experience, and your kids will remember it for their whole lives.
You’ll integrate the family dog into your daily activities and lifestyle. After a while, it will start to feel like he or she was always there.
More Exercise For Everyone
Dogs need to be walked every single day. If you don’t take them out for at least thirty minutes each day, they can become restless and destructive around the house.
Getting the whole family involved in taking your pet for walks is a great way to increase everyone’s daily physical activity. Each family member can take turns walking the dog for its necessary multiple outings a day.
Even this small increase in regular physical activity can make a significant improvement in the family’s health.
Teaches The Kids Responsibility
Living with a dog means having to look after a loving creature and be responsible for taking care of its basic needs. Feeding the dog and making sure it has everything it needs is a great way to teach your children the value of responsibility, since it can be integrated into their chores.
When you show them that it’s up to them to make sure the dog gets fed, bathed, and walked, or it won’t get done at all, they may even start to appreciate what you do as a parent!
