Dogs Help Kids Develop Non-Verbal Communication, Compassion and Empathy.According to the AACAP* “A good relationship with a pet can also help children in developing non-verbal communication, compassion and empathy.” Pets can be safe listeners to the secrets and private thoughts of children. Pets provide children with information about all phases of life: birth, illness, accidents, injury, death and grief – and teach respect for all living things. *American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry February 2012