According to a recent study, one in ten British parents say owning a pet has helped their child lose weight, while nearly half say their child is fitter and healthier because they own a dog or a horse. The report, which was authorized by Pets at Home, also found that Brits have collectively lost approximately 4 million stone in weight thanks to the increased level of activity that comes from owning a pet.
A recent research from St George's, University of London, found that owning a dog could help lower the risk of childhood obesity, as dog-owning families participate in more physical exercise and are less sedentary. Dr. Carri Westgarth, Epidemiology and Population Health Researcher at the University of Liverpool clarified that walking and playing with dogs are reasons why there is a an obvious correlation between dog ownership and improved fitness, and that this isn't observed with any other type of pet.
She explained that generally, when looking at the population as a whole, if you have a dog you are more physically active, and this is true for children as well, in terms of rising physical activity levels. The children of the Hamilton family, from Derby, have observed an improvement in their fitness since they got their Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Tilly, three years ago.
Tilly makes us go out more as family. Before we had her, we never liked doing outdoor stuff, but now, thanks to our dog, it's the other way round. Aside from improving their fitness, the study also found that pets help children's mental health, with almost 3 quarter of parents saying that having a pet has improved their child's anxiety.
Dr. Maeve Moorcroft, Pets at Home's veterinary advisor, said that one of the greatest things about a childhood pet is the strong bond that can develop. You can turn to them when you need someone to comfort you when you are upset or frightened. The pet will never make fun of you or laugh at you or tell your secrets (we all know how tough sibling rivalry can be.) There will be no fights with your pets.
