NOT JUST HUMANS

As social beings, the capacity to form and maintain relationships is necessary to us and how we function within society. It is a key component to being mentally healthy, and having a positive sense of wellbeing. As people grow up, their ability to form and continue relationships – be that with peers, parents, teachers etc. is extremely important. Most children will naturally learn these skills as they develop.

Our relationships aren’t only limited to humans. This is probably not for everyone, but we can have very positive relationships with our pets. These relationships can have a positive impact on both our physical and mental health.

For instance, they can help reduce stress and bring down blood pressure. Perhaps the strangest, is that dogs have been shown to help children who have difficulties with their reading. There are a few schools in the country that have ‘employed’ specially trained dogs to help children with their reading. It seems that, as long as you like dogs, they are non-judgemental, aren’t critical and just cute. This encourages the child to want to be with the dog and read to it.