A pet brings innumerable benefits to children’s lives. In general, the company of an animal improves the quality of life of all people, increases their life expectancy, maintains physical and mental balance, facilitates rest, reduces stress, and generally reduces the level of depression. But her role in children’s lives is even more important, because she also contributes to their social and educational development, as it forces them to take responsibility, increases their self-esteem and, in most cases, strengthens family friendships.

Animals also nurture responsibility and respect for others, develop their ability to care for someone, and instill a sense of competence and security, two feelings that a child must develop in their life cycle in order to achieve proper emotional balance. What responsibilities can a child take on with their pet?

We must adapt the child’s responsibilities to his age. Toddlers can take on the responsibility of making sure the animals get fresh water every day, feed them, comb them and wash them. As they age, they may also help walk them and take on other responsibilities.

According to the Affinity Foundation’s second Animal Attachment Survey, the first thing most children attribute to their role in their pet’s life is “caring,” and “play” and “feeding” are also important. In this way, the study highlights the value of the responsibility that pets pass on to toddlers.