Why you should buy your child a pet this Christmas
Georgina Blaskey reveals why animals and children are better together
We all know the old adage ? a pet is not just for Christmas, it’s for life ? and how often have we used this as an excuse not to give our kids the present they want over and above anything in their local toy shop" But evidence shows that having a pet at home is so beneficial for kids, you may wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
Recent research demonstrates that the responsibility of feeding, walking, grooming and playing with a pet can influence other aspects of a child?s life. Professor Lance Workman, a psychologist from the University of South Wales whose previous research has explored different aspects of animal behaviour, says, “I firmly believe that pets provide an invaluable taster for adult life. If you care for a pet, this helps you to develop compassion, and to realise you have a responsibility towards others. And later on in life, we can transfer those skills to our relationships with friends and partners.” Animal ownership also raises the happiness factor. “Studies have shown that if you’ve got a cat or a dog in the house, it boosts the production of feel-good serotonin and dopamine,” says Professor Workman. “Serotonin is released when we feel happy and content, and dopamine is released when we anticipate a reward. One lab study also discovered that people can stave off the negative feelings associated with social rejection simply by think...
Source:
littlelondonmagazine
URL:
http://www.littlelondonmagazine.co.uk/
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