In the absence of felines, though, we had one of everything else. We had fish, gerbils, hamsters, turtles, birds and dogs. As each of these pets became an important member of our family, the two of us did our part in taking care of them.
Of course, the animals liked to make it challenging.
We both remember a time when one gerbil got out of its cage. We chased it from room to room while it darted under couches and behind bookcases. By dinnertime, we were tired and the gerbil still at large. The search was put on hold as we ate – until it ran straight through the kitchen.
By the time we got the gerbil back in its cage, Mom and Dad made it our new task to ensure it stayed there. We obliged – only for about as long as the attention span of two young boys would allow. Inevitably, the gerbil managed to make a few other breaks.
How having a pet can teach compassion to your child
Aside from getting a good workout, we began taking on new levels of responsibility with each and every one of our pets. Whether it was keeping the gerbil confined, cleaning out its cage or making sure it and the others were well-fed, we took pride in making sure each chore was completed.
More than that, we also learned why these needs had to be fulfilled. These pets were friends who displayed their happiness whenever we appeared with fresh water. By caring for them, we learned a lesson in compassion.
Showing kindness to people and kindness to animals is really not that different, when you think about it. The relationship between a child and a pet is a fantastic way to nurture a sense of compassion that can then be conveyed to the world.
Caring for a pet involves getting to know its feelings and how it communicates. All animals – be it dog, cat or bird – use varying movements and vocalizations to express their needs. As kids develop relationships with their pets, they learn to read these communications. Then, by charging them with taking care of the pet, a child can learn how to make it more comfortable.
For example, dogs usually turn to high-pitched whines or stamping their paws when they are looking to be fed. A parent can teach their children what these signals mean and allow them to fill up their pet's dish in response. Providing a dog with food is an easy avenue to gain its trust (they say the easiest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach). When it's finished eating, the child will learn that a friendly lick is a dog’s way of showing affection.
Page 1 of 2 – Read how pets can bring your family closer together on Page 2
