When kids are afraid of something, like being home alone for 10 minutes while you run to the Quick Mart on the corner, a pet can do more than keep them company, it can give them confidence that they will be alright or give them courage to feel safe. If children need to be “latchkey” kids for a little while after school, a pet can help them adjust to a new situation. Maybe a child is afraid to walk to the park alone. Taking the dog for a walk to the park may give him or her the courage to go and see who’s there and what they’re doing.

Picture by smartbark.com