Owning a pet can teach children important values that can help them throughout life.

Giving and receiving unconditional love can teach acceptance and build self-confidence and trust.

Recognizing and addressing a pet’s needs can build responsibility and compassion.

Teaching a pet a new skill can help kids with patience and perseverance.

Understanding how animals communicate can help children understand human nonverbal communication.

Growing up with pets can teach kids not to fear unfamiliar experiences.

The death of a pet can help children learn to grieve in healthy ways.

Before you get a pet, consider the amount of time and money required to care for it and your family’s lifestyle.

Published with permission from RISMedia.