There are many well-documented benefits of children growing up with dogs. They include a greater sense of empathy, better social skills, and a lower risk of allergies – all showing that growing up with dogs can be great for your children. Along with all of the benefits though, come some dangers – both for the children and the dogs.
Awareness and vigilance on your part – whether you’re a parent, aunt/uncle, grandparent, or just a friend to someone with kids – can go a long way. Staying aware can help prevent problems and ensure that the balance stays on the side of the benefits. Here are five crucial lessons that all children should be taught about living– or even just interacting– with dogs.
Please do not ask emergency or other specific medical questions about your pets in the blog comments. As an online informational resource, Preventive Vet is unable to and does not provide specific medical advice or counseling. A thorough physical exam, patient history, and an established veterinary-patient-client relationship is required to provide specific medical advice. If you are worried that your pet is having an emergency or if you have specific medical questions related to your pet’s current or chronic medical conditions, please contact or visit your veterinarian, an animal-specific poison control hotline, or your local emergency veterinary care center.
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