Puppy Love: The Pros & Cons of
Pet Ownership for Kids with LD
By Marcia Brown Rubinstien, M.A., C.E.P.
For children struggling with learning disabilities, the right pet can promote empathy and nurturing skills, encourage socialization and communication, and provide physical and emotional contact in a non-threatening way. Pet ownership, however, is not a one-way street. Some children have wonderful experiences caring for animals, while others are overwhelmed by the responsibility.
Caring for a pet can help your child develop social skills, self-esteem, self-confidence and belief in a trusting relationship.
Proceed with Caution
If your child is begging for a pet, don’t rush the decision-making. Help your child investigate and plan. Learn which animals require what care, and what animals require more care than your family may be willing to give. Humane societies are filled with unwanted animals that have sadly ended up with the wrong owners. Children serious enough to approach the research have a better chance at caring for an animal appropriately.
Choose a pet that your child can care for, but expect to help with everything from finances to feces. Work with your child to develop a schedule for the pet’s daily food, water, and exercise.
Make your child understand that a pet whose needs are not met will have to find a better home. And never allow your child to be rough or abusive with a pet.
In most cases, children over 10, despite their learning differences, can reap enormous benefits from pets. There is only one caveat for parents of kids with LD who are about to become pet owners. Before you set out on this potentially exciting adventure, know your child and know your child’s pet.
Pet ownership can be a wonderful way to help an impulsive, self-centered child learn patience and empathy. Caring for a pet can help her develop social skills, self-esteem, self-confidence and belief in a trusting relationship. For children who might otherwise be sedentary, it is incredibly beneficial to own a pet that demands physical activity. Most important, a pet can help children learn respect for other living things as they follow their pets through the life cycle.