“Outside of a dog, a book is a man’s best friend. Inside of a dog, it’s too dark to read.”
When my children were growing up, we usually had a dog and a cat for them to play with and take care of. Research has shown that pets have an important role in the lives of children. They teach compassion and love; responsibility; and companionship. Often, they provide security to a child.
It’s very important though to make sure that your family has the time and energy to take care of a pet, especially a dog. If you get a puppy, understand that a lot of time will have to be invested training the puppy, especially if it is to be an indoors pet.
One of my sisters recently bought a puppy at a fundraising auction for her children’s school. Yes – the puppy looked oh so cute. But, little did she know what they would have to endure as a family with a new puppy – constant yipping, going to the bathroom all over the house, barking at everyone, etc. It is now almost 9 months since she purchased the puppy, and things have improved, but after much struggle.
There are many adult dogs and cats that can be adopted too. Take the plunge if you haven’t already. A pet adds a special dynamic to your children’s lives.
Author Soraya Diase Coffelt