Pets are a huge part of our lives, and many of us view them as our children – that’s why terms such as “furbabies” and “paw-rents” are so common.
In the UK, one in three people consider themselves to be their pet’s parent, so whether we have human children or not it seems as though many of us describe ourselves as our parents. And, with the amount of money we can find ourselves spending on the best cat toys and dog puzzle toys, it’s probably not too surprising.
Of course, not everybody who has a pet has or wants human children (and here are some reasons to have a pet rather than children!) – but could having a pet make people better parents? Open Study College and registered psychologist Dr. Carolyne Keenan have teamed up to explain how and why:
1. Pets encourage emotional development and responsibility
“When people care for a pet, they learn to be attuned to their animal’s emotional and physical needs – skills that easily transfer to parenting,” Dr Keenan says. “This helps future parents develop patience, compassion, and the ability to manage the needs of another living being, which are all essential when raising children.”
2. Pets improve mental health
It’s no secret that pets can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve our overall mental health, too. And, because interaction with pets can release oxytocin, often referred to as the ‘bonding hormone’, pets can help create a calm environment at home – ideal when you have children.
3. Improve time management
For people who have pets before children, it can help prepare them for the structure and routine needed. Dogs in particular require plenty of routine when it comes to walking, feeding, and grooming, and this can help would-be parents balance their commitments to attend to the needs of another being.
4. Learn conflict resolution
“Whether it’s training a dog or managing a cat’s behavior, learning to navigate these situations with patience and calmness prepares future parents for the challenges that will inevitably arise with children,” says Dr. Keenan. “It’s a great way to learn that not every situation will be easy, but a solution can often be found through understanding and persistence.”
5. Build connection and responsibility
The relationship between pet and human can help teach us lessons in connection and responsibility. We make decisions on behalf of our pets, learning to prioritize other beings – just as parents so often have to do for their children.
Dr. Keenan adds: “Ultimately, owning a pet is much more than a source of companionship; it’s an opportunity for personal growth and preparation for parenthood. The lessons learned from caring for an animal-empathy, responsibility, patience, and communication are invaluable building blocks for those about to begin their journey into parenthood.
“While pets and children are, of course, different, the skills and experience gained from one can certainly benefit the other, making pet owners well-equipped to thrive as parents in the future.
If you’re a dog parent and you’re thinking of having children, here’s how to introduce a dog to a baby. If you already have kids and you’re planning on getting a cat, meanwhile, here’s how to introduce a cat to your children.
