It is thought that there are over 7 million dogs in the UK and many of them are bought for company and as family pets for the whole family to love and enjoy.
There are many benefits and advantages to having a dog:
- It is claimed that children with pets have better self-esteem, empathy with others and develop better social skills.
- Dogs provide loyalty.
- There is a reduction of incidence of asthma and other allergies when a baby has been brought into a family which already has a dog. It is thought that children also develop a stronger immune system.
- Families with a dog tend to exercise more as they walk their dog around the local park or around the block once or twice a day.
- Petting a dog can reduce anxiety and has a calming effect. It has been claimed that pet owners suffer fewer medical problems than people who do not have any pets living at home.
- Owning a dog teaches children about responsibility, compassion, caring and respect for another living being.