Adopt a dog!! It has been found that when kids aged 9 – 19 were exposed to secondhand smoke, their risk of contracting asthma fell dramatically when they had a pet in the house. Pets not only help with emotional support and therapeutic skills but taking care of animals can also aid children in developing responsibility and empathy.
Children with pets in the family also seem to be less accident-prone. Some parents would say that once you have children, your world shrinks down to the size of a teacup (and then some). Having an animal in the home has been shown to keep children active and alert, thus preventing accidents like falling out of windows or getting run over by cars.
The dog can be a great help in keeping the family together. Having a pet teaches children responsibility and how to take care of another living being. A dog can also be a great source of comfort for young kids, especially if they are missing their parents while at school or away on business trips. Dogs are known to be loyal companions and can provide children with some sense of security.
People who spend time with pets are also less prone to loneliness, depression, and the blues. They are more likely to be outgoing and tolerant, which makes them great co-workers at places like kennels or animal shelters. Dogs teach people how to play ball, not take life too seriously and appreciate the little things, like a stick of wood or a piece of rawhide.