Research shows that animals help calm us, leading to better mental well-being. Eighty-five
percent of pet owners report improved overall mental health after getting a pet.* Petting
animals for even five minutes can increase dopamine levels, providing a sense of pleasure and
wellbeing.
Anita Reynoso, LCSW, RPT, CASI, ADHD-CCSP, is a School-based Therapist for North Range
Behavioral Health who offers animal assisted therapy at elementary schools. Ziggy, her five-
year-old golden doodle, helps reduce stress and anxiety in the students through his calm,
empathetic nature. For this month’s issue, Anita shared insights on how animals enhance our
mental health and the special effects of raising a pet on children.
When children care for animals, they develop essential life skills. Pets often make children feel
safe, loved, and protected, which can boost self-esteem and lead to more restful sleep, both
critical for mental health. The structure and routine required to care for pets help children feel
more secure. Pets also decrease loneliness and provide companionship, especially in homes
where caregivers are very busy or absent.
Children learn empathy and emotional intelligence when a pet gets hurt or sick. They witness
the animal's emotions and learn how to care for them in various emotional states,
understanding that others may have different perspectives. For example, many dogs fear
fireworks; and loud noises. A good pet owner might take their dog far from the fireworks, bring
them to a quiet basement, or turn up the TV to mask the noise. This teaches children
compassion and empathy, as they take precautions to comfort their pet. This responsibility of
pet care helps prepare them for future responsibilities in life.
Animals offer unconditional love and acceptance, which children desperately need. This
unconditional love assures them that no matter their mistakes, their pet is always by their side.
Pets are also great confidantes, allowing children to express their emotions and feelings safely
and comfortably.
Recognizing an animal's feelings and boundaries helps children recognize these in others and
themselves. They learn not to tolerate things they dislike and understand how an animal
responds to kindness or unkindness, lessons that often transfer to human relationships.
Dog ownership encourages children to spend more time outside, leading to more green time
and less screen time. This outdoor activity provides much-needed vitamin D, which is known to
decrease depression.
Animals help children gain a greater understanding of the world around them by learning to pay
attention to external factors to keep their pets safe and healthy. Creativity problem-solving can
also come into play, such as figuring out how to exercise their dog when it's too cold to go for a
walk.
The skills learned from pet ownership translate to many other areas of life, fostering
compassion and responsible behavior in children and helping them become more empathetic
human beings. Managing the day-to-day tasks of pet care, such as feeding, grooming, and
exercising, teaches children the importance of routine and commitment. Additionally, the bond
formed with a pet can improve emotional intelligence and social skills, as children learn to
communicate and build trust with their animal companions. This foundation not only benefits
their personal growth but also positively influences their interactions with others. To learn more about North Range Behavioral Health's services, visit NorthRange.org or call 970.347.2120.
Animals offer unconditional love and acceptance, which children desperately need.