If you have never observed the bond between a pet and his child companion, it can truly be something to behold. Look no further than Jessica Shyba’s instagram featuring Theo and Beau here: http://instagram.com/mommasgonecity/
Founded in 2005, National Kids and Pets Day was created to encourage adoption from animal shelters instead of other sources and to help nurture the bond between children and animals. How can you do this, you might ask? Talk to your kids about the differences between them and their pet companion. Let them know that pulling the dog’s tail isn’t nice and how their cat might not like surprise screeching in his ear. Teach them how to communicate with their pet friends.
You can also visit or call your local animal shelter and see if they take child volunteers. Many children that grow up with pets have proven to be more compassionate and dedicated parents (along as loving pet owners) when they grow up. Pets help shy children become more confident and children with learning disabilities have shown great improvement in academic success when they have a pet to read to.
