ADHD and furry friends
Growing up with dogs has been shown to have many health benefits for children with ADHD attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and ADD Attention deficit disorder.
Here are some of the benefits which have been reported:
• Dogs need routine and consistency and this helps children with ADHD and ADD who also need routine and consistency too
• Exercise is essential for dogs and they love to play too – this can provides a great outlet for a child’s excess energy
• All pets including Dogs have been proved to help depression, stroking, cuddling and playing with a dog releases oxytocin (the happy hormone) which helps to reduce depression.
• They can take the stress away from new situations
Pets for children with Autism
Growing up with dogs has been shown to have many health benefits for children with Autism, here are some of the benefits which have been reported:
• Dog provides a sense of security as dog will love us unconditionally
• Can help decrease ‘meltdowns’ and aggression
• Decrease anxiety
• Children are more likely to try new things
• More able to face their fears
• Can increase sociability due to the dog being an ‘ice-breaker’ and taking the focus away from the child
• Can encourage verbal communication as the child talks to the dog and also increases vocabulary.
If you have a dog or other pets, here are a few things to consider before you adopt.
