If you have ever in your life been the proud owner of a pet, you will know that to them, you are perfect. They look at you and see the sun shining out of your fingertips and they love you unconditionally. You know that the love that they show you is genuine and born of pure innocence, which means you cannot help but love them and want to lavish affection on them in return. If you don’t currently own a pet, and your teenagers have been bugging you for one, then it’s time to give it some thought.
Pets, especially dogs, are wonderful support systems for teenagers. In a time of emotional turmoil and angst as they move from childhood through puberty and into adulthood, teenagers need something constant in their life. There are emotional, physical and psychological benefits of having a pet and those benefits are powerful. The simple act of petting a dog is enough to lower blood pressure and lower cortisol levels. An ESA dog is a very powerful thing to have for a teenager, because the sheer level of emotional support that they get can help to raise those good mood hormones. In a time where a teenager is a hormone casserole, anything that can help to raise the mood is a good thing that should be taken total advantage of.
When you bring a pet into your home, you are giving your children the chance to be raised in a home with empathy, because of the love and laughter that pets give to us. The character formation that happens in a child with a pet is one that exudes happiness and devotion. If your child has learned to care for another being from a young age, then they will be better rounded teenagers. Even the grumpiest, moodiest teenagers can come back from the brink of rage with the love a dog can show them. Pets, especially dogs, can help to keep the whole family more emotionally level. They can make even the steeliest person break down their emotional armor, allowing the, to give back love and affection that they otherwise may not have been able to do.
Dogs are patient creatures. If you want to hold onto their fur and cry, they will happily wait until you are done needing them as a crutch to hang onto. For a teenager who is in a whirlwind of their own, this type of non-judgmental behavior is perfect to be able to support them in a time of need. Saying yes to a pet is not just about the kids getting a companion or you dealing with an extra mouth to feed. It’s about being able to give your kids the chance to bloom as caring individuals, learn responsibility and learn about commitment. All of these lessons are essentials for their future, and you would be able to give them that independence to learn all those things. Say yes to the pet, regardless of the one that is asked for!
Erika C. says
This was a great article, I agree with everything said because we own two dogs that are kids are growing up with. They are our family and important in our everyday lives.
Yona Williams says
Dogs are total mood changers. They know how to bring your spirits up quickly, and they can really tell when you need it.
Calvin says
My cat definitely helped me during tough times, a pet is always nice as it’s another family member and friend to people.
Janet W. says
My dog always helps me through difficult times in life. She’s my best friend and companion. I think every family should have a dog who can afford to take care of it properly.
Elena says
I have dogs and cats and they make my life better
Sarah L says
I’m glad I got to grow up with a dog and a cat.
ellen beck says
Dogs and cats or any pet really they can care for teaches so much. Unconditional love in some cases, and even more important lessons such as pets becoming seniors. Iknow for many kids, the death of a pet is an important part of growing up. It may be the first loss, and they learn from it.
Dana Rodriguez says
This is an awesome post. Pets bring so much love into your life.
Lynne B says
Unconditional love – that’s our dog. She knows when you’re not feeling well and comforts you by coming up and nudging you.
Sara Zielinski says
Dogs are great companions!